curvedalong

Curvedalong is a technique in computer graphics and design for distributing or aligning elements along a curved path. It involves positioning objects, text, or features so that they follow the geometry of a curve while often preserving spacing and orientation relative to the curve.

Key considerations include choosing a base curve (spline, polyline, circle), controlling spacing (arc-length parameterization to keep even intervals), and aligning orientation to the curve's tangent. In practice, two common approaches are to orient items using the curve's tangent (to keep objects pointed along the path) and to apply a frame along the curve. The Frenet frame can define a moving coordinate system, though it can cause twisting; parallel transport frames can minimize twist.

Applications span typography, where text is written along a path; layout and graphic design for curved lines of icons; 3D modeling and animation to place objects along rails, roads, or ribbons; and procedural generation to create fences, pipes, or cables that follow a curve.

In software, curvedalong results from built-in path tools such as text-on-a-path features or curve-like modifiers and can be achieved programmatically with curve parameterization and transformation matrices.

See also: text on a path, along-path alignment, and curve fitting.