Volume Graphics and Volume Visualization
Min Chen · Wiley Encyclopedia of Computer Science and Engineering · 2008
Abstract Volume graphics is concerned with graphics scenes, where models are defined using volume representations instead of, or in addition to, traditional surface representations. It is a study of the input, storage, construction, manipulation, display, and animation of volume models in a true three‐dimensional form. Its primary aim is to create realistic and artistic computer‐generated imagery from graphics scenes comprising volume objects, and to facilitate the interaction with these objects in graphical virtual environments. Volume visualization is also concerned with volume data representations that are used to store measured physical attributes of real‐world objects or phenomena or to represent computer‐generated models and their attributes in volumetric forms. Its main aim is to extract important information from acquired volume data and to convey such information visually to reviewers. This article provides an introduction to these two interrelated fields and examines several fundamental aspects common to both fields.