Extended Depth-Buffer Algorithms for Hidden-Surface Visualization

Abstract

The extended depth-buffer method is an algorithm that has recently been developed to solve the hidden-surface visualization problem inherent in interactive CAD systems. The method uses CSG primitives, which are useful for interaction, as geometry entry data instead of surface data and polyhedra of B-Reps data. Also described is an algorithm designed to efficiently calculate the depths of primitives. This algorithm is connected with the TIPS-1 CAD/CAM system.