Abstract: A computer-implemented method and system for efficiently creating splines. Drawing software modules can use splines to connect objects in a drawing or flow chart. Splines are defined and manipulated by a group of points and equations that are used to calculate the position of the spline. To create complex or precise splines, drawing software modules add control points to the minimum number of control points needed to create the spline. The invention improves upon existing methods of creating splines by examining the control points and eliminating unnecessary ones. By eliminating redundant control points, the invention reduces the processing work that must be done to calculate the position of the spline and improves the performance of the drawing software module.

Abstract: A computer-implemented method and system for creating splines that can avoid certain objects on a page. The method improves upon existing drawing software modules by supporting the creation of curved connectors that connect only the intended source and target objects. Control points are used to control and manipulate the path of the spline in order to avoid intersecting undesired objects. Aesthetic refinement techniques enable the creation of splines with precise inflection points. The obstacle avoidance and refinement techniques produce more accurate drawings that are easier for the user to read.