# Pattern Transformations

When you train a pattern with PatMax using either shape description or an image, PatMax creates an internal representation of the pattern's geometry. PatMax also initializes the pattern origin to a value that you specify. When PatMax returns the location of a pattern instance in a run-time image, it does so in terms of the pattern origin.

Note: In addition to specifying the pattern origin as a simple point, you can also specify a generalized pattern origin in the form of a transformation object. The use of a generalized pattern origin is described in the sectionGeneralized Pattern Origin

By default, the pattern origin is located at (0, 0) within the selected space of the training image. The following figure shows the default pattern origin for a trained pattern.

See the following topics for more information: