Compact representation of object slices for rendering raster graphics
AssigneeApple Computer, Inc.
InventorsThomas C. Chan, Kok S. Chen
Life of this patent
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Abstract
Storing and updating parameters of object slices used to render more complex objects is made more efficient in raster graphics systems. Recognizing that some parameters of adjacent object slices remain unchanged, these values need not be stored or updated, thereby saving transmission overhead and/or memory.
Claims17
A method for storing parameters associated with an object slice to be rendered comprising the steps of:
- determining a first set of parameters defining boundaries of a first object slice to be rendered;
- storing said first set of parameters in a storage device;
- determining a second set of parameters defining boundaries of a second object slice to be rendered;
- comparing said first set of parameters with said second set of parameters;
- and
- storing in said storage device only those parameters in said second set which differ from corresponding parameters in said first set.
A method for storing an object slice comprising the steps of:
- determining if any of a plurality of parameters which define boundaries of said object slice are to be updated;
- and
- selectively storing, based on said step of determining, said plurality of parameters.
A method for transmitting information associated with an object slice comprising the steps of:
- determining if any of a plurality of parameters which define boundaries of said object slice have changed relative to a previously rendered object slice;
- and
- transmitting, based on said step of determining, those of said plurality of parameters which have changed.
A device for creating objects using object slices comprising:
- means for identifying object slice boundary parameters which are to be updated from one object slice to the next;
- and
- a storage device for storing boundary parameters which define each object slice to be rendered, wherein said device transfers values only for those object slice parameters identified by said identifying means to said storage device.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.