Extrapolation of behavioral constraints in a computer-implemented graphics system

Abstract

In graphics systems, objects are manipulated and placed by users. Some systems aid the user in placing objects by providing interesting points or relevant geometric data for the objects. Objects may have manipulation or behavioral constraints that limit the placement of the object with respect to other objects. Such behavioral constraints may be associated with the relevant geometric data and may be created by the interaction between two objects. Embodiments of the invention simplify or filter objects. Simplification and filtering provide a replacement or temporary object that is not as mathematically complex with fewer geometric data, attributes, and behavioral constraints. The simplification of an object evaluates the definition of the geometry of an object to obtain a simpler geometrical object that is not as complex. The filtering of an object filters the object based on varying criteria. For example, the filtering may be based on one or more specific types of geometric data or attributes such as plane, line, point, etc. Alternatively, the object may be filtered based on a distance criteria such as closest, farthest, above, below, etc. Once an object has been simplified and/or filtered, an instance of the simplified/filtered object (referred to as a “temporary” object) is obtained along with interesting geometric data, relevant attributes, and behavioral constraints. The temporary object may be manipulated and utilized to interact with other objects by the user. Once the temporary object has been appropriately placed by the user, the original object replaces the temporary object.