obround

An obround is a geometric shape resembling a rectangle with semicircles at each end. It can be thought of as a capsule shape or a stadium shape. Mathematically, it can be defined as the Minkowski sum of a line segment and a disk. The shape is characterized by its length, which is the distance between the centers of the two semicircles, and its width, which is the diameter of the semicircles.

Obround shapes are common in various applications. In mechanical engineering, they are often used for openings or cutouts in structures, such as windows or doorways in vehicles, or for pipe openings. The rounded ends allow for smoother transitions and stress distribution compared to sharp corners, making them functionally advantageous in many designs. The term "obround" itself is a portmanteau of "oblong" and "round."

In everyday life, obround shapes can be found in the design of pills, coins, and certain types of buttons. The smooth, continuous curve of the obround makes it easy to handle and visually appealing. The specific dimensions of an obround can vary widely depending on its intended use, from small electronic components to large architectural features.