Abstract

A computer system displays, in two dimensions, a representation of a three-dimensional volume. The three-dimensional volume representation is a tessellation of cells, represented as three-dimensional units. The three-dimensional volume is represented by a plurality of digital numbers. A designator designates which of the digital numbers are to be represented in the two-dimensional display. Each digital number is represented by one cell. Also, each digital number represents a color. Each corresponding cell is colored in accordance with the digital number. A designator designates which of the digital numbers is to be represented by a cell in the three-dimensional representation. A cursor, controlled by a mouse, may be used to indicate which of the three-dimensional volume representation is to be excavated by indicating at the appropriate cells and then electronically ordering the excavation. The designator is changed thereby and the excavated cells are stripped away, exposing the cells immediately adjacent the excavated cells. The color of the cells indicates a parameter such as amplitude. The viewing angle of the three-dimensional volume representation is variable, allowing rotation in any direction of the three-dimensional display for examination of any surface.

Other References

• "Three Dimensional Deta Input by Selection of Hierarchially Defined Blocks", Yamaguchi et al., Eurographics 84 K.B0 and H. A. Tucker Elsevier Holland Science Publishers B. V. 1984
• "Two Display Algorithms for Octrees"; Oliver, Eurographics 84, K. B0 and H. A. Tucker, Elsevier Science Publishers B. V. (Holland), 1984
• "Experiences with New Image Component Algorithms", Samet., Eurographic 84; K.B0 and H. A. Tucker; Elsevier Science Publishers B. V., Holland 1984