Multi-processor graphics display system for displaying hierarchical data

Abstract

A multi-processor graphics system including a general purpose system control processor for setting up the workstation environment and data traversal structures based upon an application model language description. Workload balancing and interprocessor communication is managed by defining a general purpose interface between the general purpose processor and special purpose graphics control processor. The system control processor accepts application program information in a standard form, such as a hierarchical graphics language definition, then converts it into generalized interface control blocks for communication to the graphics control processor. Graphics control processor is signalled by an interrupt from the system control processor to begin the traversal process. The graphics control processor can then access the standard control blocks contained in system memory and perform the traversal necessary to generate the requested graphics image. Generalized control blocks allow rapid adaptation to program changes and efficient communication between the general purpose and specialized processors.