method syntax for handle objects

For handle class methods, would there be any performance difference between the two implementation below?

function initializeMesh(obj,tempVertices,tempFaces)
end

function obj = initializeMesh(obj,tempVertices,tempFaces)
end

I know the lower of the two is a little more flexible syntatically in that both:

meshInstance.initializeMesh(tempVertices,tempFaces)

and

meshInstance = meshInstance.initializeMesh(tempVertices,tempFaces)

are allowed and seem to produce the same result. I'm leaning towards include the obj return for that reason. Is there anything I'm missing here that might make the returnless method better?

Answer 1

[Matt J]

Well, the second syntax is the one you would normally use if the method is intended to return a new, freshly constructed, independent instance of the class. If that's not the case, then future developers of your code might look at it and mistakenly assume that this,

meshInstance2 = meshInstance1.initializeMesh(tempVertices,tempFaces)

will result in separate instances of the class meshInstance1 and meshInstance2.That can be a dangerous mistake to make. In later lines of code, you think that manipulations of meshInstance2 are not affecting meshInstance1, when in fact they are.

[Jason]

That is certainly a good point, thanks Matt

[Matt J]

You are welcome, but if my answer has resolved your question, please do Accept-click it.