# Elasticity

You can specify the degree to which you will allow PatMax to tolerate nonlinear deformation by specifying an elasticity value. You specify the elasticity value in pixels.

In general, you should specify a nonzero elasticity value if you expect inconsistent variation in patterns in run-time images.

You should keep the following points in mind when specifying a nonzero elasticity value:

- Specifying a nonzero elasticity value does not affect PatMax's execution speed.
- Increasing the elasticity value does not decrease PatMax's accuracy. However, location information returned about additional object instances that are found as a result of increasing the elasticity value can be less accurate.
- If the elasticity value is too low, you will see low scores and your application may fail to find patterns in the run-time image and/or the positions will be incorrect or unstable.
- If the elasticity value is too high, PatMax may match false instances and may return inaccurate or unstable results.

In general, you should start with an elasticity value of 0; if necessary, increase the value slowly until you obtain satisfactory results.