Referring to actions, measurements, or orientations that occur or are contained within a single, designated plane. A plane, in this context, represents a flat, two-dimensional surface, and 'within-plane' specifies a restriction to this surface, implying no displacement or consideration of aspects perpendicular to it (i.e., out-of-plane). This term is crucial in fields like physics, engineering, and computer graphics where the spatial arrangement of elements is vital. It often denotes analysis of structures or processes limited to that flat surface, excluding any three-dimensional elements. It is therefore, the direct opposite of an out-of-plane context. Furthermore, this term specifies confinement to a defined or implied plane, which defines the set of reference points or limitations.
Within-plane meaning with examples
- In structural mechanics, 'within-plane' shear stresses are analyzed to understand the behavior of materials under forces acting parallel to the surface of the object, disregarding stresses that might act from outside that plane of the object. For example, in bridge engineering this is considered essential for stability and design calculations. The plane is the surface of the material.
- In computer graphics, 'within-plane' transformations, such as rotations and scaling, are applied to objects within a two-dimensional display space, meaning that the image stays on the plane. For example, in 2D animation, character movements are often constrained to this type of action for simplicity. This restricts its context to the coordinate system of the display.
- Scientists analyzing the two-dimensional properties of graphene examine behaviors that are entirely 'within-plane', such as the movement of electrons. In electronics, this concept is paramount for understanding current flow. The analysis will always be performed on that single plane that defines graphene or the object, and nothing outside.
- When designing a printed circuit board (PCB), traces are laid out 'within-plane', influencing the electrical pathways that connect components. For instance, trace widths and spacing are carefully considered to manage signal integrity, confined to the layer on which they are laid. All traces and the movement of electricity within that plane is considered.