This thesis covers the mathematical background of ray-casting as well as an exemplary implementation on graphics processing units, using a modern programming interface. The implementation is embedded within an editor, which enables the user to activate optimizations of the algorithm. Techniques like transfer functions and local illumination are available for a more realistic visualization of materials. Moreover, the user interface gives access to features like importing volumes, let one define a custom transfer function, holds controls to adjust parameters of rendering and allows to activate further techniques, which are also subject of discussion in this thesis. Benefit of all shown techniques is measured, whether it is expected to be visual or on the part of performance.
This thesis imparts a general view of the mechanics and implementation of latest voxelization strategies using the GPU. In addition to established voxelization procedures using the rasterization pipeline, new possibilities arising from GPGPU programming are examined. On the basis of the programming language C++ and the graphics library OpenGL the implementation of several methods is explained. The methods are compared in terms of performance and quality of the resulting voxelization and are evaluated critically with regards to possible use cases. Furthermore, two exemplary applications are detailed that use a voxelized scene in such a way that the augmentation of established techniques of real time graphics are facilitated. To this end, the concepts and the implementations of Transmittance Shadow Mapping and of Reflective Shadow Mapping utilizing a voxel based ambient occlusion effect is explained. Finally, the prolonging relevance of voxelization is put into prospect, by addressing latest research and further enhancements and applications of the presented methods.