Abstract:
The algorithm presented in this paper converts a CSG model into
a representation for interactive display on an engineering
workstation. Called Constructive Cubes, the algorithm extends
the standard CSG-point classification algorithm and then employs
a popular iso-surface generation algorithm, Marching Cubes, to
generate a list of polygons that approximates the surface of a
CSG model. The polygons may then be interactively displayed,
shaded and inspected on a workstation. The algorithm has many
advantages over other CSG evaluation algorithms. It is
straightforward to implement, requiring no complex surface
intersection calculations. The algorithm provides an inherent
flexibility that allows a user to balance the time/quality
trade-off. It is designed to take advantage of current and
future advances in both visualization and engineering workstation
design.