pathobject

Pathobject is a term used in computer graphics and computational geometry to represent a sequence of connected points that define a curve or a line segment. This sequence can be a simple straight line formed by two points, or a complex curve defined by multiple points and control points, depending on the underlying mathematical model used. The term 'object' signifies that a path can be treated as a distinct entity within a graphics system, possessing properties such as color, thickness, and fill.

Pathobjects are fundamental to vector graphics, where they are used to construct shapes, lines, and outlines. Unlike raster graphics, which are composed of pixels, vector graphics are resolution-independent, meaning a pathobject can be scaled to any size without loss of quality. This is because the pathobject is defined by mathematical equations rather than a fixed grid of pixels.

In various software applications, such as Adobe Illustrator or Inkscape, pathobjects are manipulated using tools like the pen tool or shape tools. Users can add, delete, or modify anchor points and control points to shape the path. The connections between these points can be either straight lines (segments) or curves, often defined by Bezier curves or splines. These paths can then be rendered as outlines, filled with color, or used as masks and clipping paths. The flexibility of pathobjects makes them essential for creating scalable and editable graphics.