[Bf-funboard] Zbuffer output

[Roland Hess]

This functionality request is very simple, so I didn't bother making 
a full-up html proposal. If that is required, let me know and I'll do 
it.

Feature request: Integrated zbuffer output.

Controls: toggle for zbuffer output in Render Buttons. This could 
replace the little used "BW" button, or an additional "Z" or "RGBZ" 
button could be added. Zbuffer output would be generated to all image 
formats that support one channel information.  RGBZ would be 
generated to targa format and others that support more than three 
channels.

Reasoning: There are a host of post-processing techniques (DOF blur, 
color adjustment, more versatile fogging, compositing) that can be 
applied with easily accessible zbuffer information. Although a 
sequencer plugin exists for zbuffer output, it seems to me that this 
functionality could be easily and quickly integrated into the normal 
render output pipeline, giving the growing number of users who 
post-process their images and animations a powerful, simple method 
for accessing this useful data.

Thanks

P.S. Coders, regarding the latest cvs builds: you guys are 
incredible! I'm, er, soiling myself every day when I check out 
blender.org and find some new delicious goody there. Things seem to 
be picking up steam.
-- 
Roland Hess - harkyman
IT Manager
Reed & Witting Company