A new software technology that creates more life-like 3D images by correctly modelling the light reflection properties of 3D objects has been unveiled by Intel Labs.
The software, called Light Field Mapping (LFM), provides the industry with a compact, efficient and highly accurate method for representing light reflectance properties of real and synthetic objects, bringing high-quality 3D to real-time, interactive applications, according to Intel microprocessor research labs senior research scientist Radek Grzeszczuk.
“The big challenge for the 3D graphics industry is how to bring the realism we know we are capable of delivering into interactive 3D graphics,” Grzeszczuk said.
“The combination of a fast and simple rendering routine, small data sets and ease of content creation features in LFM will help bring more realism to computer graphics without sacrificing interactivity.”
Grzeszczuk said that LFM also has a great potential for improving the 3D scanning industry because it can correctly reproduce the appearance of physical objects, even those with very complex surface reflectance properties.
Intel Labs is also currently working on developing a complete solution for acquisition, delivery and visualisation of 3D models that are highly realistic and acquired completely automatically, with minimal human intervention, Grzeszczuk said.
Intel expects to see the initial diffusion of LFM in the industry in approximately 18 months, with broader diffusion in about two years.