Origins of Global Illumination
Turner Whitted
Abstract
Global illumination refers to a complete shading model that simulates real lighting and reflection as accurately as possible. Whether used for product prototyping or special effects for entertainment, the goal is to match the appearance of the real world. The origins of global illumination come at the intersection of a steady progression of shading models with the ancient simulation technique of ray tracing.
Topics & Concepts
ShadingGlobal illuminationComputer scienceComputer graphics (images)Intersection (aeronautics)Ray tracing (physics)Reflection (computer programming)Computer visionProduct (mathematics)Artificial intelligenceComputer graphicsEntertainmentOpticsRendering (computer graphics)Visual artsGeographyMathematicsCartographyProgramming languageArtPhysicsGeometryComputer Graphics and Visualization Techniques3D Surveying and Cultural Heritage3D Shape Modeling and Analysis