Heterogeneous objects modelling and rendering using implicit complexes

This paper describes a technology for modelling and rendering heterogeneous objects containing entities of various dimensionalities within a cellular-functional framework based on the implicit complex notion. Implicit complexes make it possible to combine a cellular representation and a constructive function representation. We describe a formal framework for such a hybrid representation and propose a general structure for implicit complexes. Then, we consider how an implicit complex can be described geometrically and topologically along with its associated attributes. Rendering algorithms for implicit complexes using ray-tracing are also discussed. Finally, we present a case study illustrating the proposed methods and algorithms.