Point based rendering for massive data sets: a case study

In this case study, we describe our experiences with implementing a hybrid polygonal and point based rendering system for displaying large data sets. Our reasons for choosing a point based system are explained in detail, together with some notes about the implementation and how it was integrated into a larger environment. We then describe some of the unforeseen problems of using point based rendering in OpenGL, and how we solved these issues. We conclude the report with a discussion of what worked well and what didn 't, and the lessons learned.