Extending the Representation Capabilities of Shape Grammars: A Parametric Matching Technique for Shapes Defined by Curved Lines

A shape grammar provides the means to synthesize designs in the language defined by its rules through automated or human interaction. Shape grammar interpreters provide a quick method to move a shape grammar from paper to an implemented design synthesis tool. In this paper, a method of shape addition, subtraction, and matching for two-dimensional shapes consisting of curved and straight lines is outlined. Some results from three implemented shape grammars are shown and their uses are discussed.