Solving geometric constraints by a graph-constructive approach

Abstract

A geometric constraint solver is a major component of recent CAD systems. Graph constructive solvers stem from graph theory. We describe a 2D constraint based modeller that uses a graph constructive approach to solve systems of geometric constraints. The graph based approach provides means for developing sound and efficient algorithms. We present a linear algorithm that solves a large subset of the rule and compass constructive problems. Methods for handling over- and under-constrained schemes are also given.