Computer graphics system with parallel processing using a switch structure
First Claim
1. A graphics system for processing primitive data, as from a host computer, to provide display data in the form of display pixels related to locations in a display, said graphics system comprising:
- a structure for processing said primitive data to provide representative update pixels related to the locations in said display;
a plurality of visibility-and-blend processors, said visibility-and-blend processors each including an associated frame buffer bank, the frame buffer banks collectively defining a composite frame buffer, each frame buffer bank for storing predetermined frame buffer pixels that are spaced apart and in sequence skipping locations of said display, said plurality of visibility-and-blend processors each for iteratively processing said update pixels in said associated frame buffer bank; and
a switch structure for supplying said update pixels to said plurality of visibility-and-blend processors in accordance with said sequence skipping locations of said display.
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Accused Products
Abstract
Front end processors in a graphics architecture execute parallel scan conversion and shading to first process individually assigned primitive objects for providing update pixels. A crossbar accommodates data rearrangement whereby parallel pixel processors with associated memory capabilities (frame buffer banks) perform visibility and blending operations on predetermined sequences of update pixels to provide display pixels. The pixel processors identify with sequences of pixels in the display in patterns designed to equalize processor loads for pixels located along scan lines or distributed over an area. Specific distribution criteria are disclosed for patterns. One form of pixel processor organization incorporates a distributed frame buffer with FIFO memory and control stacks. Display pixels are received by a multiplexer to supply a digital-analog connector with display data in raster sequence.
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Citations
15 Claims
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1. A graphics system for processing primitive data, as from a host computer, to provide display data in the form of display pixels related to locations in a display, said graphics system comprising:
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a structure for processing said primitive data to provide representative update pixels related to the locations in said display; a plurality of visibility-and-blend processors, said visibility-and-blend processors each including an associated frame buffer bank, the frame buffer banks collectively defining a composite frame buffer, each frame buffer bank for storing predetermined frame buffer pixels that are spaced apart and in sequence skipping locations of said display, said plurality of visibility-and-blend processors each for iteratively processing said update pixels in said associated frame buffer bank; and a switch structure for supplying said update pixels to said plurality of visibility-and-blend processors in accordance with said sequence skipping locations of said display. - View Dependent Claims (2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15)
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Specification