A Fast and Accurate Light Reflection Model
		A Fast and Accurate Light Reflection Model
		Introduction

Abstract

A comprehensive light reflection model has been presented [HE91], which has been shown to be physically-based and accurate, and applicable to both smooth and rough surfaces. The model correctly describes the transition from specular to diffuse-like reflection behavior as a function of wavelength, angle of incidence, and surface material and finish, as demonstrated below:

 

Figure 1: Interactive multimedia demonstration. Double click the figure to activate the control panel; click “Play“ to activate a demonstration. Similar steps will activate all subsequent interactive figures.

The light reflection model, however, is expensive to compute. To make the model useful a fast computational method is needed. In this paper, we address this issue and present a close approximation that is very fast to compute. To help understand the full model and the reasons behind the fast approximation method, a multimedia tutorial approach is used with interactive sessions. MediaView [PHIL91] is used as the presentation system. [Note: this version has been ported to HTML and Java applets for wider compatibility. Text that is no longer valid, usually because a feature has not been implemented, is shown in gray.]

The light reflection model is used as a learning tool, particularly to help illustrate the directional behavior of reflected light at a surface. The multimedia paper concludes with illustrative animated scenes that demonstrate the high level of realism and accurate image behavior that can be achieved when a physically-correct light reflection model is employed.

		A Fast and Accurate Light Reflection Model
		A Fast and Accurate Light Reflection Model
		Introduction

Last modified: Mon Sep 5 22:06:44 EDT 2011

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