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Point‐Based Rendering of Non‐Manifold Surfaces
Author(s) -
Balsys Ron J.,
Suffern K. G.,
Jones Huw
Publication year - 2008
Publication title -
computer graphics forum
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.578
H-Index - 120
eISSN - 1467-8659
pISSN - 0167-7055
DOI - 10.1111/j.1467-8659.2007.01096.x
Subject(s) - rendering (computer graphics) , parametric surface , computer science , subdivision surface , octree , subdivision , parametric statistics , computer graphics (images) , manifold (fluid mechanics) , algorithm , computer vision , artificial intelligence , mathematics , polygon mesh , mechanical engineering , statistics , archaeology , engineering , history
Abstract We are concerned with producing high‐quality images of parametric and implicit surfaces, in particular those with non‐manifold features. We present a point‐based technique for rendering implicit surfaces that uses octree spatial subdivision with a natural interval exclusion test that guarantees that no parts of the surface are missed. This allows us to render non‐manifold implicit surfaces at speeds comparable to parametric surfaces. We also derive criteria that guarantee complete pixel coverage of the surface. The point‐based method allows for hidden surface elimination using a z‐buffer, and shadow casting using a shadow buffer. We illustrate the technique with a number of surfaces, and discuss its advantages and disadvantages.