Method, device and program to display 3D representations of an object based on orientation information of the display

Abstract

Techniques are disclosed for displaying a graphical element in a manner that simulates three-dimensional (3D) visibility (including parallax and shadowing). More particularly, a number of images, each captured with a known spatial relationship to a target 3D object, may be used to construct a lighting model of the target object. In one embodiment, for example, polynomial texture maps (PTM) using spherical or hemispherical harmonics may be used to do this. Using PTM techniques a relatively small number of basis images may be identified. When the target object is to be displayed, orientation information may be used to generate a combination of the basis images so as to simulate the 3D presentation of the target object.

Description

Background technique [0001] The practical display of three-dimensional (3D) objects on two-dimensional (2D) surfaces has been a long-standing goal in the field of image processing. One way to simulate a 3D object is to take a large number of images each lit from a different position. A particular image can then be selected and displayed based on the detected position of the light source (eg, via an ambient or colored light sensor). Another approach is to take a large number of images each with a 3D object at different positions relative to a fixed light source. Again, a particular image can be selected and displayed based on the determined orientation of the 3D object (eg, by using an accelerometer). Another method combines the above two methods so that both lighting position and object orientation can be considered. What should be relatively easy to grasp is that the number of images required for either of the first two methods can become very large - making it difficult t...

AI Technical Summary

Problems solved by technology

What should be relatively easy to grasp is that the number of images required for either of the first two methods can become very large – making it difficult to implement in low-memory devices

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