Computer graphics apparatus for processing of data defining a three-dimensional computer model to partition the three-dimensional space into a plurality of sectors

Abstract

A computer graphics apparatus comprises a modelling package and a rendering package. The modelling package outputs data representative of the definition of a scene to be represented graphically. The rendering package receives data representative of the scene to be represented graphically, and converts that data into rasterised image data. Preprocessing apparatus is provided to arrange the data defining the scene in a manner which can be more easily processed by the rendering package. The preprocessing apparatus partitions the scene by means of partition planes in directions selected from three mutually perpendicular directions. The planes are positioned so as to eliminate as much empty space as possible, to cause as little division of geometry of the scene as possible, and to deliver sections of the scene which contain no more than a particular level of detail.