Interactive rendering of large data sets requires fast algorithms and rapid hardware acceleration. Both can be improved, but none of this ensures interactive response times. If a scene is too complex, performance decreases, and neither faster algorithms nor speeding up hardware can guarantee interactive behavior. Certain timing characteristics should be incorporated in order to support such properties. In our new approach we propose an interactive rendering pipeline with special timing predicates. We apply this technique to medical imaging, where large data sets derived from CT or MRI scans and CAD designs must be rendered in real-time with immediate monitoring feedback. Interactive behavior enables the user to manipulate and adjust the visualization straight on demand.
Jörg Meyer, Steffen Gelder, Timna E. Schneide