Repaint() call doesn't get processed

Question

I'm doing a graphical interface to test different path finding algorithms.
Here is just a small test "algorithm" that I'm using to build up the graphical methods I need. It starts from the start point and just moves straight to the right until it reaches the end of the area (int[][] squares).
I want to separate the path finding algorithms from counting different stuff and drawing the graphics and that is why examineSquare() method is being used.
Part of code from "path finder" :
while (contents != FINISH)
if (x < maxX)
contents = examineSquare(x+1,y); // problems are with method used here
else
noRoute();
break;
//route found
Here is the examineSquare() method that causes problems:
private synchronized int examineSquare(int newX, int newY)
// Do some stuff with counters and manipulate the other
// variables that canvas uses with paint()
myCanvas.repaint();
// then I want the program to take a little break
try { wait ( theLenghtofDelay[speed] ); }
catch (Exception e) { System.out.println(e.toString()); }
x = newX;
y = newY;
return squares[x][y];
For some reason the program never executes the paint() method. Why?
Screen gets repainted only after the while loop has ended.
Same repaint() is used in many different parts of my program without problems.

Answer 1

The code may help you to use repaint() method after some delay.
new java.util.Timer ().scheduleAtFixedRate (new java.util.TimerTask ()
            public void run ()
                repaint ();
        , new Date (), 1000); //1 second(you may increase your delay time)
    }