3D Image-Based Lighting Surface Point-and-Click Adjustment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for positioning and adjusting lighting in 3D computer-generated models are inefficient, relying on trial and error and lacking precision, especially in placing reflections and illumination, which hinders the creation of professional-quality images.
Innovation Solution
A computer-implemented method that allows users to interact with a 3D image-based lighting surface by defining an image plane and user viewpoint, tracing rays to determine surface intersections, and adjusting lighting properties directly on the surface, enabling precise placement and modification of light sources within the 3D scene in real-time.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional CG light sources with icons are used to represent lighting, then the lighting position and characteristics can be displayed, but the lighting lacks physical form and cannot be seen in reflections
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses image-based lighting surfaces that capture and copy real-world lighting environments through HDR images. Instead of using abstract icons to represent lights, the system copies the actual appearance and behavior of light sources from photographs, allowing users to see realistic lighting effects in reflections and on surfaces without needing separate icon representations.
2Measurement precision
If orthographic views are used to position objects in 3D space, then precise positioning can be achieved, but the user cannot judge height and depth effectively
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the advantages of orthographic views and camera views by allowing users to interact with the 3D scene directly in the rendered camera view while maintaining precise positioning capabilities. The system combines the realistic spatial perception of camera views with the precision control traditionally provided by orthographic views, enabling users to judge height and depth naturally while still achieving accurate object placement.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent adds a new dimension to the user interface by enabling direct interaction with the rendered image itself. Instead of requiring users to switch between multiple viewports (front, side, top), the system allows point-and-click lighting adjustment directly on the camera view, adding a layer of intuitive spatial interaction that preserves depth and height perception.
3Illumination intensity
If fully rendered interactive viewports are used to display real-time lighting, then realistic lighting quality is achieved, but computing resources and rendering time are significantly increased
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs lighting computation in advance by capturing real-world lighting environments in HDR images. Instead of calculating complex lighting simulations in real-time, the system pre-computes the lighting information from photographs and stores it in the image-based lighting surface. This preliminary action allows the rendered scene to display realistic lighting quality without requiring significant computing power during interactive operations.
4Productivity
If users adjust lighting by trial and error in traditional software, then lighting can be modified, but the process is inefficient and lacks precision
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary system that translates user clicks in the rendered view directly into precise lighting adjustments. Instead of requiring users to manually adjust lighting parameters through multiple viewports and trial and error, the click position acts as an intermediary that automatically calculates the corresponding lighting modifications, providing both precision and efficiency in a single intuitive action.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This method provides a highly interactive, intuitive, and fast way to create and adjust lighting for 3D objects, allowing for higher-quality lighting setups in a shorter time, enabling more realistic and dynamic lighting effects similar to professional photography.
Implementation Method 1
tracing a ray from the user viewpoint through the identified point on the image plane and either, determining a surface intersection point of the ray with said surface or determining an object intersection point of the ray with said object
Data Source
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AI summary
A computer implemented method of interacting with a three dimensional image based lighting surface in order to adjust the lighting properties of the surface. The method comprises: defining an image plane and a user viewpoint for the lighting surface; rendering and displaying on a display of a computer a scene containing an object in situ within the lighting surface taking into account said image plane and said user viewpoint; by way of a user interaction with the displayed scene, receiving an identification of a point on the image plane; tracing a ray from the user viewpoint through the identified point on the image plane and either, . determining a surface intersection point of the ray with said surface or . determining an object intersection point of the ray with said object and tracing a further ray either being a reflection of the ray from the object or being normal to the surface of the object at said object intersection point, and determining a surface intersection point of the further ray with said surface, and adjusting the lighting properties of the surface at or in the region of the surface intersection point.