Display updates in a windowing system using a programmable graphics processing unit.

Abstract From the Canadian patent

Techniques to effect arbitrary visual effects using fragment programs executing on a programmable graphics processing unit are described. In a first technique (300), visual effects are applied to a buffered window system's assembly buffer prior to compositing a target window. In a second technique (400), visual effects are applied to a target window as it is being composited into the system's assembly buffer. In a third technique (500 and 600) visual , effects are applied to a system's assembly buffer after compositing a target window. In a fourth technique (700), visual effects are applied to the system's assembly buffer as it is transmitted to the system's frame-buffer. In a fifth …