From the points of view of multiresolution schemes and simplification techniques , those known major algorithms are classified and summarized . a simplification algorithm for terrain models based on the normal vectors of mesh vertices is proposed . its rule of simplification grounds on visual features , error metrics is from normal vectors of mesh vertices and simplifying technique is vertex removal 从多分辨率方案和简化技术两个方面对已有的主要方法进行了分类和总结;提出了一种基于网格顶点法矢量的地形模型简化算法,该算法的简化准则基于视觉特征、误差测度基于网格顶点法矢量、简化技术则是顶点剔除;在此基础上,提出了一种与视野相关的地形简化和绘制方法,该方法通过虚拟的网格顶点包围球来测度误差,实现与视野相关的地形简化。