Patterson, John W.Cockton, Gilbert2014-10-212014-10-2119921467-8659https://doi.org/10.1111/1467-8659.1130311This paper begins by examining the classical raster-based composition model, establishing its weakness, and developing a new composition algebra based on line drawing. It then examines the role of composition in the Hierarchical Display Model, demonstrates that the forms of composition assumed in this model are inadequate to deal correctly with the interactions of two-dimensional representations of three-dimensional objects, and shows that our composition algebra resolves this difficulty. The composition steps required can be packaged with the use of a single attribute which constrains the apparent order of composition. This attribute is associated with the object which is to be taken out of order , obviating any needsfor layers.10.1111/1467-8659.1130311311-320