Graphics pipeline

In 3D computer graphics, the graphics pipeline or rendering pipeline is the pipeline that transforms the conceptual model of the 3D world to a 2D raster image.

Though the specifics of the graphics pipeline may implement a variety of algorithms – including scanline algorithms, such as Z-buffering and Reyes rendering, and ray tracing – there are certain steps that are common to almost all graphics pipelines:

Viewing transformation

Objects are transformed from their own individual coordinate systems into the coordinate system of the virtual camera.

Hiding

Parts of the scene that will not be visible are discarded.

Lighting and shading

The surface properties of objects are calculated based on the virtual lights in the scene.

Projection

The 3D scene is flattened to a 2D image.