There are various solutions available which allow the vectorization of raster data, such as scanned design drawings or manually created technical illustrations. What kind of problems can occur with vectorization?

Vectorization programs create vector data from raster data. These are characterized by a small file size and they can be scaled without loss of quality. Furthermore, this data can be edited and changed much easier.

The vectorization process is very complex. With specialized software you are given a multitude of options. These options allow you to approach the desired result in a variety of ways.

An inherent difference between these options is the way lines are created. For this, we have two settings: Tracing of the pixel edges or tracing of the pixel center.

When tracing the pixel edges, filled surfaces are created as lines. This method creates more data than necessary. Furthermore, this data is more difficult to edit. When tracing the pixel center, the lines created correspond to the composition of a line graphic.

With this method real lines are created in the center of the pixel successions. The following graphic illustrates both methods, on the left the tracing of the pixel edges, on the right the tracing of the center:

If you wish to use the created data further, it is recommendable to choose the option for tracing the pixel center.