An efficient edge-based compression algorithm for 3D models with holes and handles

Recently numerous studies have attempted to develop efficient algorithms for compressing/decompressing geometric data. Almost all of these algorithms are either multiple pass traversals or operate in reverse order. Multiple pass traversals take a long time to execute. Operating in reverse order should work only off-line since its decompression order follows the reverse order of the compression. These factors restrict numerous applications. To conquer these restrictions, this study proposes an edge-based single-resolution compression scheme for handling triangular mesh connectivity. The proposed algorithm encodes and decodes 3D models straightforwardly via single pass traversal in a sequential order. Most algorithms use the split operation to separate the 3D model into two components; however the displacement is recorded or an extra operator is needed for identifying the branch. This study proposes using the J operator to skip to the next edge of the active boundary; the method need not split overhead. Meanwhile, this study proposes the cut operation to compress/decompress the triangular mesh with holes and handles. The experimental results demonstrate that the proposed algorithm achieves better compression ratio and faster execution time than the conventional algorithm. The proposed algorithm is combined with a graphics engine, and the hardware structures and vertices replacement strategies are also presented.