Abstract

We investigate the suitability of the functional model of programming as applied to the solid modelling field of 3D rendering, with particular reference to expressiveness and efficiency. We find that functional languages with a good implementation can be more efficient than other languages in certain aspects in the rendering process. Furthermore, recent developments in functional languages allow difficult concepts to be expressed simply within programs, and allow easier expression of the models we wish to render. 1 Introduction A currently popular area of computing research is functional languages. These are inspired by mathematical notation, and the work of the mathematicians Haskell B. Curry and Alonzo Church. These languages claim to be mathematically pure, which helps program manipulation and proofs. At the same time, a graphics technique known generally as Constructive Solid Geometry is gaining favour, especially now it has been enlivened with new raytracing and texture-mapping m...

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