Disclosed herein is a technique for computing a complex gradient using
multiple conics. In connection with a computer system having a graphics
processing unit (GPU) in addition to the normal central processing unit
(CPU), gradients can be computed in real time. The conics may be rendered
and adjusted in a number of ways, providing a rich palette for creation
of gradient graphics. The computational efficiency of the algorithms
disclosed herein, when executed on typical GPU hardware, allows rendering
frame rates high enough to provide animated gradient images.