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Cluster Computing

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01-06-2014

Towards an efficient parallel raycasting of unstructured volumetric data on distributed environments

Authors: Cristiana Bentes, Bernardo B. Labronici, Lúcia M. A. Drummond, Ricardo Farias

Published in: Cluster Computing | Issue 2/2014

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Abstract

Direct volume rendering of large and unstructured datasets demands high computational power and memory bandwidth. Developing an efficient parallel algorithm requires a deep understanding of the bottlenecks involved in the solutions for this problem. In this work, we make a thorough analysis of the overhead components involved in parallel volume raycasting of unstructured grids for high-resolution images on distributed environments. This evaluation has revealed potential opportunities for performance improvements. The result is a novel approach to distributed memory raycasting that includes different acceleration techniques to enhance ray distribution, face projection, memory locality, and message exchanging, while maintaining load balance. We report the gains achieved in each phase and in the complete parallel algorithm when compared with a conventional approach.

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Title: Towards an efficient parallel raycasting of unstructured volumetric data on distributed environments
Authors: Cristiana Bentes
Bernardo B. Labronici
Lúcia M. A. Drummond
Ricardo Farias
Publication date: 01-06-2014
Publisher: Springer US
Published in: Cluster Computing / Issue 2/2014
Print ISSN: 1386-7857
Electronic ISSN: 1573-7543
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s10586-013-0244-0

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