Polygonalisering

Polygonalisering is a process in computer graphics and geometry where a continuous surface or object is represented using a collection of interconnected polygons, typically triangles. This technique is fundamental to creating and rendering 3D models in real-time applications like video games and simulations, as well as in offline rendering for film and animation.

The input to polygonalization can be various forms, including mathematical descriptions of surfaces, scanned data from the real world, or even sketches. The goal is to approximate the original shape with a mesh of polygons. The resolution of the polygonalization, meaning the number of polygons used, directly impacts the level of detail and the computational cost. A higher polygon count results in a smoother, more accurate representation but requires more processing power. Conversely, a lower polygon count is less resource-intensive but can lead to a blocky or jagged appearance.

Algorithms for polygonalization vary depending on the complexity of the input and desired output. Common methods include triangulation, where a surface is divided into triangles, or quadrangulation, which uses quadrilaterals. The choice of polygon type and the algorithm used can affect the efficiency of rendering and the quality of the final image. Polygonalization is a key step in the graphics pipeline, bridging the gap between abstract geometric data and the pixels displayed on a screen.