Ray Tracing Preview Generation for Rendering Condition Adjustment
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing ray tracing methods for generating computer graphics (CG) require extensive calculation time, making it inefficient for users to set rendering conditions, as they need to adjust illumination conditions through trial and error, and do not provide a means for obtaining a preview image efficiently during the processing.
Innovation Solution
An image processing apparatus that calculates spectral radiance data by performing ray tracing for each pixel of a scene based on light source characteristics and object information, allowing for either spatial-based or wavelength-based collection of this data to generate preview data, enabling users to set rendering conditions by observing a preview image during processing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If ray tracing is performed for each pixel to generate high-quality CG images, then image quality and faithfulness to actual objects is improved, but calculation time and processing duration increases enormously
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the ray tracing calculation process into two distinct phases: a preview phase that uses simplified calculations to generate low-resolution preview images quickly, and a final rendering phase that performs complete ray tracing for high-quality output. This segmentation allows users to obtain visual feedback during processing without waiting for the entire computationally intensive rendering to complete.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements partial action by performing ray tracing on only a subset of pixels during the preview phase rather than all pixels. The preview image uses reduced resolution and fewer traced rays per pixel, providing sufficient visual information for parameter adjustment while dramatically reducing calculation time. Users can then adjust parameters based on this partial result before initiating full rendering.
2Measurement precision
If complete ray tracing is performed before allowing user review, then calculation accuracy is maintained, but user ability to adjust parameters based on visual feedback is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary ray tracing calculations to generate preview images before the user needs to make parameter adjustments. This preliminary action provides users with visual feedback during the setup phase, enabling them to adjust illumination conditions, material properties, and other parameters based on actual rendered previews rather than guessing. The full accurate rendering is then performed after parameters are finalized.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where preview images generated during the calculation process are displayed to users in real-time or near-real-time. Users can observe the visual results of their parameter settings and make adjustments accordingly. This feedback loop continues until the user is satisfied with the parameters, at which point the complete high-quality rendering is executed.
3Manufacturing precision
If trial and error adjustment of illumination conditions is performed, then composition accuracy between CG and photographed images is improved, but time required for setting rendering conditions increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent provides immediate visual feedback through preview images that show the actual illumination conditions, material appearances, and composition results. Users can adjust illumination parameters such as light intensity, color temperature, and direction, and immediately see the effects in the preview image. This eliminates the need for lengthy trial and error periods, as users can make informed adjustments based on visible results rather than theoretical predictions.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary rendering calculations to generate preview images that accurately represent the final output quality. This allows users to finalize all rendering conditions including illumination settings, camera parameters, and material properties before committing to the full high-resolution rendering. The preliminary action ensures that composition accuracy between CG and photographed images is optimized before the time-consuming final render begins.
Data Source
AI summary
Spectral radiance data is calculated by performing ray tracing from a viewpoint for each pixel of an image of a scene, based on light source characteristics and object information in the scene. Either a spatial-based collection of the spectral radiance data or a wavelength-based collection of the spectral radiance data is performed to generate preview data of the image of the scene, during performing of the ray tracing.