Distance-based transfer function design: Specification Methods and Applications

We employ distances as a second dimension for transfer function (hereafter TF) specification. Distances refer to selected reference shapes. When distance-based TFs are applied to medical volume data and anatomic structures as reference shapes, they can support diagnostic procedures and therapy planning. As an example, distance-based TFs may be used to explore the neighborhood of a tumor which is essential to assess whether a surgical removal is feasible. In this paper, we discuss methods to specify 2d distance-based TFs, the use of predefined but adjustable templates to reduce the interaction effort and an efficient implementation of these TFs.