Introduction - Real-Time Rendering: Computer Graphics with Control Engineering - page 2

aeronautical, mechanical and electrical engineering, and electronics industries. The
concept is based on feedback control that can provide consistent performance moni-
toring and regulation with no requirement for human intervention. From a systems
perspective, the technical challenge translates into the form of a “plant” (process
to be controlled) and a “controller” component that ensures the process performs
optimally according to predefined objectives.
This technology clearly has numerous applications and commercialisation pos-
sibilities. We conceived the possibilities listed below.
Computer-aided design (CAD) and -manufacturing (CAM) —Three-dimensional
(3D) datasets used widely in many industrial applications. Our technology will allow
a user to view such datasets even on a mobile device. This brings productivity out of
the office and makes it available to people on the move.
Virtual communication —The market for 3D virtual communication is growing,
particularly in the education and corporate services segments. As a viral social net-
working medium or mode of communication in professional exchanges, 3D inter-
active applications will remain key factors in online virtual communication. We see
our technology as an enabling factor for linking more people to such networks.
Marketing and sales —More companies are moving toward high quality inter-
active content intended for consumers. This provides an opportunity for us to
introduce our technology so that more people can utilise it without the limitations
imposed by hardware. As a result, commercial entities can expect greater market
reach and corresponding increases in revenue.
Training and education —Our technology can be deployed in various training
and education products, enabling them to be delivered to audiences utilising hard-
ware with different capabilities. The benefit offered by our technology is the easy
ability to visualise 3D information even in a collaborative environment, therefore
enhancing the value of training and knowledge dissemination.
1.2 OBJECTIVES AND CONTRIBUTIONS
Based on the shortcomings of current real-time rendering software, our research
entailed the investigation and development of a feasible solution that would allow accu-
rate and sustainable control of the real-time rendering process on different hardware
platforms. The two key objectives affecting implementation of the technology are:
1. Despite the complexities involved in real-time rendering, it is imperative to
devise a systematic method to describe this process in a form that relates its
inputs and outputs consistently.
2. Based on the derivable form and the known characteristics of the rendering
process, it is critical to find applicable control principles and frameworks
that will ensure control of the process over a variety of scenarios.
Our research spans knowledge of the computer science (computer graphics rendering)
and control engineering disciplines. Both fields imposed challenges that made our
research both exciting and fulfilling. Our key research contributions are listed below.