A linkage, in computational geometry parlance, is a set of rigid edges connected by joints (i.e., vertices about which the edges can rotate.) There are various problems that surround linkages, such as:
How can the linkage avoid collision with other objects?
How can the linkage avoid collision with itself?
Can a given linkage (in the form of a closed polygon) be convexfied (moved in such a way so that all angles are made convex)?
Can a given linkage (in the form of an open polygonal chain) be made straight?
What kinds of curves can be drawn using one vertex of a linkage as a marker?
In how many different ways can a linkage fold?
Some problems with linkages are purely theoretical. Others can be applied in various ways, ranging from the design of mechanical objects (such as robot arms) to the design of drug molecules.
Here are some examples of simple linkages drawn with Cinderella. You can move the linkages by dragging the lighter-red points. Notice that the bars disappear when you try to stretch them farther than they are able to go.
Closed polygonal linkage and Open-chain linkageThe conformational space of a linkage is the "totality of all admissible positions in the Euclidean plane"(*). This Cinderella construction shows the conformational space of a very simple open-chain linkage. The conformational space in this example is composed of two circles whose radii correspond to the outstretched length of the linkage.