Multipasses

Multipasses refers to a technique used in various fields, most notably in computer graphics and signal processing, where a task or operation is performed multiple times in successive stages. Each stage, or "pass," builds upon the results of the previous one, allowing for more complex or refined outcomes than a single pass could achieve.

In computer graphics, multipasses are commonly employed in rendering pipelines. For instance, certain visual effects like depth of field or ambient occlusion require multiple rendering passes. The first pass might render the scene geometry, while subsequent passes apply blur, lighting calculations, or shadow effects based on the information gathered in earlier stages. This iterative approach enables the creation of sophisticated visual elements.

Similarly, in image processing, multipasses can be used for operations such as noise reduction or edge detection. A basic filter might be applied in one pass, and then a refinement or a different type of filter could be applied in a second pass to enhance the initial results. The concept is about breaking down a complex process into a series of simpler, sequential operations.

The advantage of multipasses lies in their modularity and ability to manage complexity. By separating computations into distinct passes, developers can more easily implement, debug, and optimize individual components of a larger process. This also allows for greater flexibility, as different passes can utilize different algorithms or parameters to achieve specific effects.