Abstract: A graphics effect data structure and method of use thereof. One embodiment of the graphics effect data structure is embodied in an effect processing system, including: (1) a memory configured to store an effect data structure that describes a graphics effect implemented by a plurality of passes and shader code modules contained in the effect data structure, (2) a graphics processing unit (GPU) operable to render the graphics effect according to a shader program based on the shader code modules, assembled according to the plurality of passes, and (3) a central processing unit (CPU) configured to execute an application that employs the graphics effect and to gain access to the effect data structure during run time, at which time the shader program is passed to the GPU for processing.

Abstract: A graphics effect data structure and method of use thereof. One embodiment of the graphics effect data structure is embodied in an effect processing system, including: (1) a memory configured to store an effect data structure that describes a graphics effect implemented by a plurality of passes and shader code modules contained in the effect data structure, (2) a graphics processing unit (GPU) operable to render the graphics effect according to a shader program based on the shader code modules, assembled according to the plurality of passes, and (3) a central processing unit (CPU) configured to execute an application that employs the graphics effect and to gain access to the effect data structure during run time, at which time the shader program is passed to the GPU for processing.

Abstract: A multi-threaded graphics processor is configured to generate a tessellated iso-surface from a volumetric description using slices of values that are stored in render targets. The volumetric description can be a complex mathematic equation, a sum of metaballs, a pre-computed scalar field represented as a 3D volume texture, or a rendered volume. Slices are aligned along an axis and spaced before being intersected with the volume to determine iso-surface intersections for the x, y, and z axes. The intersections are stored in render targets and are processed by a shader program to produce a tessellated iso-surface.