Abstract: Large-scale images are retrieved over network communications channels for display on a client device by selecting an update image parcel relative to an operator controlled image viewpoint to display via the client device. A request is prepared for the update image parcel and associated with a request queue for subsequent issuance over a communications channel. The update image parcel is received from the communications channel and displayed as a discrete portion of the predetermined image. The update image parcel optimally has a fixed pixel array size, is received in a single and or plurality of network data packets, and is constrained to a resolution less than or equal to the resolution of the client device display.

Abstract: Large-scale images are retrieved over network communications channels for display on a client device by selecting an update image parcel relative to an operator controlled image viewpoint to display via the client device. A request is prepared for the update image parcel and associated with a request queue for subsequent issuance over a communications channel. The update image parcel is received from the communications channel and displayed as a discrete portion of the predetermined image. The update image parcel optimally has a fixed pixel array size, is received in a single network data packet, and is constrained to a resolution less than or equal to the resolution of the client device display.

Abstract: A 3D scalable surface renderer allows efficient real-time 3D rendering of high-detail smooth surfaces. The renderer is exceptionally effective with software rendering and low-end weaker graphics accelerators, and provides excellent visible quality per the amount of polygons used, while retaining low CPU processing overhead and high efficiency on graphics hardware. The 3D scalable surface renderer provides real time rendering of extremely detailed smooth surfaces with view-dependent tessellation using an improved level of detail approach.