Designing function that draws specific output

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the design of a mathematical function that can combine different types of graphs, specifically to create a visual representation like the batman logo. Participants explore how to manipulate functions to achieve specific outputs while addressing the challenge of making certain parts of the graph imaginary without affecting the visible components.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Technical explanation, Mathematical reasoning

Main Points Raised

  • One participant describes a method to combine curves by plotting them on the same axes and suggests using a specific function to make parts of a graph imaginary.
  • Another participant seeks clarification on how to combine specific functions, such as a linear function and a sinusoidal function, while maintaining their individual characteristics on the same graph.
  • A proposed function is mentioned that becomes imaginary for values less than a certain point, which could be used to switch between different functions in the graph.
  • The Heaviside step function is referenced as a potential tool for achieving the desired graphing effect.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree on the methods for combining functions and the use of imaginary values, but there are varying approaches suggested for achieving the desired graphical output, indicating that multiple views remain on how best to implement these ideas.

Contextual Notes

Some assumptions about the functions and their domains are not explicitly stated, and the discussion does not resolve how to handle specific mathematical steps or definitions related to the proposed methods.

Who May Find This Useful

This discussion may be useful for individuals interested in mathematical graphing techniques, function manipulation, and creative applications of mathematics in visual design.

NotASmurf
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Hey all, recently saw this video on the batman curve, designed by a high school teacher that draws the batman logo. He combined an ellipse, straight line graphs and some other sinusoidal wave then forced the functions to be imaginary at certain points to hide the unwanted bits. question, how does one combine those graphs? and secondly how does one force a graph to be imaginary at certain points without the bits you want to show being shifted? Any help apreciated.
 
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Please provide a reference so we know what you are talking about.

You combine curves by drawing them all on the same axes.
You can make a curve evaluate imaginary in som range by multiplying it by a functunction like
$$y=\sqrt{\frac{x-a}{|x-a|}} $$ which is imaginary for x<a but 1 otherwise.

You can use your knowledge of maths to construct other approaches.
 
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Thank you simon, that was just what I was looking for and I see terms that look like that in it.
Simon Bridge said:
You combine curves by drawing them all on the same axes.
Yes but i meant say I have y=mx+c and y=sin(x). is there a way to make a function from these that plots the points of both as though I was graphing them separately on the same set of axes?
 
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Yes, there are many ways and I showed you one above.
Lets call the function f(x) is such that it is imaginary for x<0 but 1 otherwise.
Youve seen how to make such a function above.

Then y=Re[g(x)f(a-x) + h(x)f(x-a)] will switch from g to h at x=a ... put g=mx+c and h=sin(x)

Also look up the Heaviside step function.
 
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Brilliant, thanks again.
 

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