Chapter 1
The math of the squircle
View / Create
Answer
Chapter 2
Steve Jobs and the rounded rectangle
View / Create
Answer
Chapter 3
Why our brains love squircles
View / Create
Answer
YOUR GOAL
Master of Why app icons are squircles
Ch 1 · The math of the squircle
steve The Math of the Squircle
It's not a rounded corner with a sudden bend, it's a superellipse curving smoothly to the end.
steve Danish designer Piet Hein popularized the superellipse in the 1960s to solve urban planning and furniture design challenges.
Fun Fact
Superellipse traffic: In 1959, Stockholm used a superellipse to design a major traffic roundabout, proving the shape solves both math and traffic jams.
steve A rounded rectangle abruptly transitions from a straight line to a sharp circle arc, whereas a squircle curves continuously.
Glossary
superellipse (noun)
A closed geometric curve with symmetric properties that sits between an ellipse and a rectangle. French mathematician Gabriel Lamé first described this geometry in 1818 before its adoption in modern design.
A closed geometric curve with symmetric properties that sits between an ellipse and a rectangle. French mathematician Gabriel Lamé first described this geometry in 1818 before its adoption in modern design.
Quiz
What exponent value in the superellipse equation creates a perfect mathematical squircle?
Quiz
Who was the Danish designer who popularized the superellipse in urban planning and furniture?
Quiz
What engineering concept ensures light reflections flow smoothly across car bodies and laptop corners?