Systems and methods are provided for progressive mesh storage and
reconstruction using wavelet-encoded height fields. A method for
progressive mesh storage includes reading raster height field data, and
processing the raster height field data with a discrete wavelet transform
to generate wavelet-encoded height fields. In another embodiment, a
method for progressive mesh storage includes reading texture map data,
and processing the texture map data with a discrete wavelet transform to
generate wavelet-encoded texture map fields. A method for reconstructing
a progressive mesh from wavelet-encoded height field data includes
determining terrain blocks, and a level of detail required for each
terrain block, based upon a viewpoint. Triangle strip constructs are
generated from vertices of the terrain blocks, and an image is rendered
utilizing the triangle strip constructs. Software products that implement
these methods are provided.