English

Minimal Perimeter Triangle in Nonconvex Quadrangle: Generalized Fagnano Problem

Optimization and Control 2026-03-31 v3

Abstract

In 1775, Fagnano introduced the following geometric optimization problem: inscribe a triangle of minimal perimeter in a given acute-angled triangle. A widely accessible solution is provided by the Hungarian mathematician L. Fejer in 1900. This paper presents a specific generalization of the classical Fagnano problem, which states that given a nonconvex quadrangle (having one reflex angle and others are acute angles), find a triangle of minimal perimeter with exactly one vertex on each of the sides that do not form reflex angle, and the third vertex lies on either of the sides forming the reflex angle. We provide its geometric solution. Additionally, we establish an upper bound for the classical Fagnano problem, demonstrating that the minimal perimeter of the triangle inscribed in a given acute-angled triangle cannot exceed twice the length of any of its sides

Cite

@article{arxiv.2601.11552,
  title  = {Minimal Perimeter Triangle in Nonconvex Quadrangle: Generalized Fagnano Problem},
  author = {Triloki Nath and Manohar Choudhary},
  journal= {arXiv preprint arXiv:2601.11552},
  year   = {2026}
}

Comments

To appear in KOG, 13 pages

R2 v1 2026-07-01T09:08:03.727Z