Improving graphics programming with shader tests

Abstract

This paper presents an automated model and a project, Arrakis, for finding defects in shading algorithms for graphics rendering and compute workloads. A key challenge in shading algorithm testing is the lack of an oracle that can determine the quality and the output of a custom shading algorithm; this is crucial in graphics workloads because expensive assets are often wasted on solving these problems. A broad solution, Arrakis is developed, which builds on current graphics technology advances in Vulkan, SPIR-V and SPIRV-X by leveraging the standardization with mappings from SPIR-V and C++. Findings show that utilizing the demonstrated technology can improve quality whilst increasing productivity.

Effective volume rendering on mobile and standalone VR headsets by means of a hybrid method

“…Recent studies [16], with no VR but mobile applications in scope, also confirm these results. In their paper of this year [3] Sutherland and his colleagues claim that rendering of most medical datasets on mobile VR platforms is 'likely to be too challenging'. The reasons can be found in the special characteristics of these devices.…”

“…A rather old but still relevant list of the most popular methods can be found in the study of Meißner et al [1], while Zhang and his colleagues give us a comprehensive summary [2] of the topic, mostly focusing on medical applications. The study of Sutherland et al [3] provides insight into the latest Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR) technologies to display medical images.…”