Multiresolution Modeling for Fast Rendering
Paul S. Heckbert
Computer Science Department
Carnegie Mellon University
Three dimensional scenes are typically modeled using a single, fixed resolution model of each geometric object. Renderings of such a model are often either slow or crude, however: slow for distant objects, where the chosen detail level is excessive, and crude for nearby objects, where the detail level is insufficient. What is needed is a multiresolution model that represents objects at multiple levels of detail. With a multiresolution model, a rendering program can choose the level of detail appropriate for the object's screen size so that less time is wasted drawing insignificant detail. The principal challenge is the development of algorithms that take a detailed model as input and automatically simplify it, while preserving appearance. Multiresolution techniques can be used to speed many applications, including real time rendering for architectural and terrain simulators, and slower, higher quality rendering for entertainment and radiosity. We survey existing multiresolution modeling techniques and speculate about what might be possible in the future.
I will also discuss some recent work on fast polygonal simplification and approximation of terrain data and other height fields.
Joint work with Michael Garland