Abstract: Some embodiments of the invention include a method for selecting a set of data files comprising surface data in a plurality of different detail levels for downloading from a server computer, the surface data being associated with a portion of a three-dimensional surface in an image scene, the data files being stored as nodes of a hierarchical file system characterized in that the selection process comprises assessing whether the portion of a three-dimensional surface is visible in an actual image scene. If it is not visible, the selection process is resumed with a sibling or an uncle node; if it is visible, the selection process continues with determining whether the surface data meets the criteria of a predefined resolution quality factor.

Abstract: The present invention is related to a method, system and device for distributing in real time data related to three dimensional computer modeled images scenes over a network. To provide a faster and better visual quality of the rendered frames on a client computer, the client computer first receives an initial file comprising a minimum of geometrical data and texture data to provide a minimum of visual quality of the displayed scene. By evaluating an importance factor for textures used in the scenes, the client computer may request the server for further data to improve the visual quality of the scene.