Computerized method and apparatus using containment relationships to represent objects in a three-dimensional space, and for moving therethrough
US5414801A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jun 11, 1991 |
| Grant date | May 9, 1995 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jun 11, 2011 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG06T15/10
- WIPO fieldComputer technology
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
A three-dimensional space may be rendered in a computer graphics system by representing the three-dimensional space as a plurality of convex polyhedra and representing the containment relationships among the plurality of convex polyhedra. Connection relationships among the convex polyhedra, including the location of holes in the connected surfaces, are also preferably represented. Containment and connection relationships are preferably represented using a containment logical tree and a connection logical graph. Three-dimensional graphics representations can thereby be rendered in a real time using a low cost, graphics processor. Efficient movement through three-dimensional space along all six degrees of freedom is also provided by using a two-dimensional pointing device, preferably a mouse, in combination with a function selector, preferably a pair of keys on the mouse. Use of the mouse without the function selection keys allows movement in a first plane in the three-dimensional space rendition, and use of the mouse in combination with the first function selection key allows movement in a second plane in the three-dimensional space rendition. Use of the mouse in combination with th…
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.