compute_only

Compute Only Sample

Overview

This sample demonstrates a minimalist Vulkan implementation utilizing a compute shader to generate and display an image. The focus is on simplicity and efficiency in the Vulkan pipeline.

Key Features

1. Compute shader-based image generation
2. Direct display of computed image
3. Utilization of advanced Vulkan extensions for pipeline simplification

Technical Implementation

Vulkan Extensions

To streamline the implementation, two critical Vulkan extensions are employed:

1. VK_EXT_SHADER_OBJECT_EXTENSION_NAME

   • Purpose: Eliminates the need for explicit Vulkan Pipeline creation
   • Benefit: Reduces boilerplate code and simplifies shader management

2. VK_KHR_PUSH_DESCRIPTOR_EXTENSION_NAME

   • Purpose: Simplifies descriptor set creation and usage
   • Benefit: Enhances performance by reducing descriptor set allocation overhead

Rendering Process

1. Compute Shader Execution:

   • A compute shader is dispatched to populate the G-Buffer color image
   • The shader writes directly to the image, bypassing traditional graphics pipeline stages

2. Image Display:

   • The generated image is rendered within an ImGui "viewport" window
   • This approach demonstrates seamless integration between compute-generated content and GUI frameworks

Performance Considerations

• The use of compute shaders for image generation can offer performance benefits over traditional fragment shader approaches, especially for complex image processing tasks
• Direct writing to the G-Buffer color image minimizes memory transfers, potentially improving overall rendering efficiency

Conclusion

This sample serves as a concise demonstration of Vulkan's compute capabilities, showcasing how modern extensions can simplify implementation while maintaining high performance. It provides a foundation for more complex compute-based rendering techniques in Vulkan applications.