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From: mkant@a.gp.cs.cmu.edu (Mark Kantrowitz)
Newsgroups: sci.virtual-worlds
Subject: Re: Reading text in virtual reality?
Message-ID: <9008242131.AA07154@rutgers.edu>
Date: 24 Aug 90 21:27:40 GMT
References: <.90Aug17102006@division.cs.columbia.edu>
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In theory, 3D text should not be much harder than 2D text. Using an
intelligent scan conversion algorithm, first generate the orthogonal
projection of the outlines onto the plane of the "screen", then use
the algorithm to produce bitmaps. Of course, while the Bitstream and
Compugraphic algorithms could be modified to do this, neither would be
fast enough unless supported in hardware.

One could get good approximations by estimating visual point size,
rasterizing at that size, and then doing a small projection. This
would be much faster.

Ideally, one would need an intelligent scan conversion algorithm which
is independent of character orientation. Sadly, there is no such beast
at this time. Naive scan conversion would fit the bill, but looks
awful at resolutions of 100 dpi. Boost screen resolution to 1000dpi,
and you'd have no problems. It also has the benefit of being the
fastest method.

--mark