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Module(s): Animation + Paint + Shadow
The Paint and Shadow modules create and process data in an entirely different manner to the Animation module. The Animation module uses pixel graphics while the Paint and Shadow modules work with vector graphics. At first glance, the result may often be the same - however, the differences between these two forms of data processing are significant.
Terms: vector data
CAD systems that aim to produce precise drawings work with geometry-oriented CAD data. The elements in a CAD drawing are saved as vectors. These vectors serve to define the elements and allow them to be identified as such.
A straight line, for example, is defined by its start point, end point and the direction; a circle consists of a center point, a radius and an angle. Complex geometric entities such as splines are approximates using mathematical formulas.
A CAD drawing thus consists of a series of geometric values entered via the keyboard or using the mouse. These values are exact values and are based on the defined coordinate system.
Vector data are "intelligent": When you resize vectors or zoom in on details, the vectors themselves are still mathematically precise. The representation adapts to the different scales and sizes which is why there is no loss of quality even when vectors are printed out as large-format drawings.
Terms: bitmaps
Bitmaps consist of a series of picture elements (hence the term pixel). Information on the position and color of every pixel within a dot grid is stored.
Together, the pixels form an image somewhat similar to a photograph in a newspaper (these are also merely a series of dots). The nearer you are to the image, the more visible the individual dots. The finer the grid of dots, the better the resolution.
When you render an image in the Animation module, you cannot enlarge it without suffering loss of quality. This is because only the pixels themselves are enlarged thus leading to deterioration in the quality of the picture - even with small pictures: The image appears coarse, sloping lines look like steps and even smooth transitions from one color to another increase in contrast.
In the Animation module, you can render images using different resolutions. The higher the resolution of the image, the better the quality. However, the amount of data generated also increases significantly and the operation can take much longer as a result. When rendering an image, keep the printout format in mind and set an appropriate resolution.
Vector data and pixel images in Allplan
Elements that you create in Allplan are generally saved as vector data; the exception is the images you generate in the Animation module.
The following modules generate the following types of data:
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