A Vectorized Hidden-Surface Algorithm Implemented on the Cray-2 Supercomputer

Abstract

Recent developments in scientific computing have prompted the need for supercomputer graphics research. These developments include the requirement to visualize large amounts of data which are processed by the supercomputer, preferably by real-time image generation. Unfortunately, most currently used graphics algorithms are not optimized for vector computers. This thesis involves the design and implementation of a hidden-surface removal algorithm for the Cray-2 vector supercomputer, with the goal of real-time image display. A z- buffer hidden-surface algorithm, written in Pascal, was vectorized and implemented on the Cray-2. Special attention was directed toward the methodology of algorithm and data structure design to exploit the Cray-2 architecture. Timing studies comparing the vector version to the equivalent scalar version showed that while tha Pascal vector code produced localized speedups, the vector code was less efficient than the scalar code. Keywords: Supercomputer, Computer Graphics, Thesis.

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Dec 01, 1988
Accession Number
ADA202657

Entities

People

  • Roy Donehower

Organizations

  • Air Force Institute of Technology

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • Energy and Power Technologies
  • Weapons Technologies

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Air Force
  • Algorithms
  • Compilers
  • Computer Graphics
  • Computer Programming
  • Computer Programs
  • Computers
  • Data Sets
  • Demographic Cohorts
  • Floating Point Operations
  • Graphics
  • High Level Languages
  • Language
  • Mainframe Computers
  • Object Code
  • Parallel Processing
  • Programming Languages

Fields of Study

  • Computer science
  • Physics

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  • Petroleum Engineering