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Contours of vector objects digitized in Studio NEXT are referred to as splines. A spline is a piecewise-defined curve composed of multiple curve or line segments joined together. Splines provide high versatility for creating smooth, complex shapes in machine embroidery design.
Studio NEXT supports the following types of spline segments (elements):
An object in Studio NEXT is typically constructed from several contour elements. These elements are defined by control points known as nodes.
A line segment (left) is defined by two points. A simple curve (center) is defined by three points. A Bézier curve (right) is defined by four points.
A line segment consists of two nodes: a start node and an end node.
Simple curves contain three nodes: a start point, a midpoint, and an end point. The node at the center of the curve defines the arc.
The Bézier curve is the most versatile type, defined by a start node, an end node, and two intervening control handles.
Note: The middle node of a simple quadratic curve always lies on the curve itself. In contrast, the control nodes (handles) of a cubic Bézier curve typically do not lie on the curve.
Icons representing the segment types: Line segment (left), simple curve (center), and Bézier curve (right).
During the editing process, all segment types can be converted to other types as required. When converting to a simpler type, the shape of the segment may be automatically simplified.
A cubic Bézier curve is a fundamental tool in computer graphics, utilized to create smooth, scalable paths. It is defined by a set of control nodes, with its path calculated through a mathematical formula based on these points. The placement of these control nodes determines the curve's shape. The first and last nodes establish the start and end positions. The two middle nodes, often called handles, influence the direction and degree of curvature. Bézier curves are valued for producing smooth, continuous lines, making them ideal for vector graphics. Because they are mathematically defined, Bézier curves can be resized to any scale without a loss in resolution.
The curve does not always pass through the two middle control nodes; instead, these points act as anchors that pull the curve toward them. By adjusting the position of these handles, the shape and curvature can be precisely tuned.
By connecting multiple cubic Bézier curves, you can create intricate outlines for any shape, ranging from simple rounded forms to highly detailed figures.
Cubic Bézier curve can create both S-shaped and U-shaped segments.
The primary difference between a simple quadratic curve and a cubic Bézier curve is the number of control points used, which impacts flexibility. With only one control point, simple quadratic curves are less effective at defining complex shapes. A single quadratic curve can only create a U-shaped segment, whereas a cubic Bézier curve can create both S-shaped and U-shaped segments. Consequently, fewer segments are generally required to vectorize a complex edge when using Bézier curves. This efficiency results in a faster digitizing process.
The same shape requires a higher number of simple quadratic curves (left) to approximate compared to cubic Bézier curves (right).
Note: Older versions of Studio did not support Bézier curves. Files created in these older versions contain simple quadratic curves, which remain functional. However, for new projects, Bézier curves are recommended to speed up and simplify digitizing. If you export designs to ".SVG" format for use in external graphics programs, Bézier curves also ensure perfectly smooth transitions between segments.
When properly constructed, Bézier splines create seamless transitions between curve segments.
Conversely, simple quadratic curves form a single arc, making it more difficult to achieve smooth transitions between multiple segments.
Studio allows you to assign a smoothness type to the shared nodes of consecutive Bézier curves. The assigned smoothness is maintained even when nodes are moved, preserving the integrity of the contour. The default type is "cusp," which applies no smoothing. The "smooth" type automatically adjusts the control points of consecutive Bézier curves to ensure a fluid transition. The "symmetrical" type ensures the transition is both smooth and balanced around the shared node.
When connecting multiple Bézier curves to form splines, the transition between segments is critical. To assist in identification, Studio displays the meeting points (nodes) between curves using different shapes.
Cusp transition between Bézier curves. The shared node is represented by a diamond shape.
The cusp transition occurs when two Bézier curve segments meet at a sharp point, resulting in a sudden change in direction. This is typically used to create sharp corners or distinct angles.
Smooth transition between Bézier curves. The shared node is represented by a square shape.
The smooth transition occurs when two Bézier curve segments meet to form a seamless flow. The curves appear as a single continuous line without abrupt changes in direction. To achieve this, the control handles of the adjacent curves must be aligned at the meeting point.
Symmetrical transition between Bézier curves. The shared node is represented by a circular shape.
The symmetrical transition further refines smoothing by ensuring balanced curvature. This implies that the control points are arranged in a symmetrical pattern relative to the meeting point. This transition is ideal for creating rounded, even shapes.
Illustration: An object constructed from straight line segments and Bézier curves.
Note: Elements should not intersect themselves or other elements within the same contour. Such intersections may cause errors during the compilation into embroidery stitches.
Bézier curves can be edited intuitively in node editing mode by dragging any part of the curve. The point on the curve under the cursor can also snap to grids or guide lines, similar to standard nodes.
Holding the primary mouse button on any part of the edge for one second will insert a new node at that location. Double-clicking the primary mouse button achieves the same result.
Holding the primary mouse button on an existing node for one second will delete that node. Double-clicking the node achieves the same result.
Note: The behavior for inserting and deleting nodes via long-click or double-click can be toggled. These options are located in the Embird's main dashboard settings, specifically under the "Controls-General" section.