Dynamic 2D Vector Fill Region Updates via Topological Recipes
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing 2D vector applications fail to dynamically update fill regions when curves are modified, leading to a loss of the original fill region definition and requiring manual updates, which limits the ability to reflect the user's intent and maintain a consistent fill.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a topological recipe that 'remembers' the selected region, allowing it to be re-baked as curves move, and uses algorithms like the Most Defensible Frontier (MDF) to repair and update the fill region automatically, ensuring dynamic updates and maintaining the user's original intent.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the fill region is defined by closed shapes in prior art applications, then the fill can be created, but the fill region becomes fixed and cannot be dynamically updated when curves are modified
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic fill region system where the fill is no longer fixed to a static closed shape but instead dynamically tracks and adapts to modified curves. The system uses curve modification detection and automatic region recalculation to maintain fill consistency while adapting to changes, transforming the static fill approach into a dynamic one that responds to user edits in real-time.
Solution Approach 2:
The system establishes a feedback loop where curve modifications are detected, the fill region is automatically recalculated based on the new curve positions, and the updated fill is rendered. This continuous monitoring and automatic adjustment mechanism ensures the fill region consistently reflects the user's intent even as curves are modified, resolving the contradiction between consistency and adaptability.
2Loss of information
If the user manually updates the fill region in prior art applications, then the fill can be refreshed, but this requires additional manual operations and time
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements self-service by automatically detecting curve modifications and triggering fill region recalculation without requiring any manual user intervention. The fill system monitors curve changes itself, performs the necessary computations to update the fill region, and renders the updated fill automatically, eliminating the need for users to manually refresh or update fills.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary actions by pre-establishing dependencies between curves and fill regions, and by proactively detecting curve modifications before the user even completes the edit. This allows the system to automatically initiate the fill update process in advance, ensuring the fill is always current without requiring reactive manual updates from the user.
3Ease of operation
If a curve is moved to create an open shape in prior art applications, then the shape can be edited, but the fill region breaks and requires manual refresh to update
Solution Approach 1:
The system prepares for potential fill region breaks by implementing continuous monitoring of curve topology and maintaining alternative calculation paths. When a curve modification creates an open shape or breaks the fill region, the system has pre-established mechanisms to detect this condition and automatically recalculate the fill using alternative methods, preventing fill region integrity issues before they affect the user experience.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses feedback mechanisms to continuously monitor whether curves maintain closed shapes required for valid fill regions. When a curve modification threatens to break the fill region integrity, the system detects this through feedback from the curve modification event and automatically responds by recalculating or repairing the fill region, ensuring continuous integrity without requiring manual intervention.
Data Source
AI summary
A method, apparatus, article of manufacture, and computer readable storage medium provide the ability to update a fill region of a computer drawing. A topological recipe representing the fill region is defined. The recipe includes a region set (of regions to be filled where the regions are areas bound by contours), a contour set (of contours that are a chain of curve segments), and curve segments. A final fill area of the fill region based on the topological recipe is computed. The final fill area is displayed and the curve segments are then modified. In response to the modification of the curve segments, the final fill area is dynamically updated and displayed.