Description:

BSpace is an external Processing library that helps with the placement and transformation of graphical content on the stage. Each BSpace object is similar to a Flash movieclip or Photoshop Layer, in the sense that it provides a separate environment for content to reside in. BSpace also introduces hierarchical structure to Processing, by enabling us to create nested transformation environments. In doing so, BSpace provides an object-oriented approach to push/pop and other transformation-matrix methods.

I was very careful not to change the nature and clarity of the core language. You'll notice that there are almost no new commands to learn. Simply use the good old processing commands inside the BSpace object.

Quick Syntax Overview:

The BSpace myNewSpace = new BSpace(this) command creates a separate environment to place shapes in.

All the usual Processing transformations can be applied to this environment like so:
myNewSpace.rotateX(1.3)
myNewSpace.scale(2) etc.

These transformations will only affect the shapes drawn in myNewSpace , and leave all other content on stage untouched.

A new shape can be drawn onto the new BSpace using the usual Processing shape-commands: myNewSpace.rect(0,0,10,10)
myNewSpace.box(10) etc.

Furthermore:

Each BSpace environment has an Positioning Axis which sets the 0,0 registration point for drawing shapes: setAxis(x,y,z), getAxisX() /Y/Z.

Each BSpace environment has a rotation/scale Pivot Point:
setPivot(x,y,z), getPivotX() /Y/Z.

Bspace environments can be nested inside each other:
myNewSpace.nestIn(someOtherSpace).

For Optimization purposes, each BSpace may be use the smooth()/noSmooth() commands




Notes:

About BSpace and Push/Pop:
Without a better understanding of Transformation Matrix, Push/Pop remain very abstract notions to my students. I often have to branch into this subject too early in the course. BSpace is an object-oriented alternative which students seem to feel comfortable with. In addition, it is a very practical pathway to object-oriented-programming and the dot syntax.

Correlation to other platforms
I find that visually oriented minds are very comfortable with the notion of 'Objects'.
To Flash users, BSpace is somewhat similar to Movieclips (Photoshop and Director users are familiar with Layers). BSpace proves to bridge some gaps when users of these platforms first approach Processing.