2. Bump mapping is a technique used in
computer graphics to simulate the
appearance of surface details on 3D
models without altering the underlying
geometry. It adds the illusion of bumps,
dents, or roughness to surfaces,
enhancing visual realism in a
computationally efficient manner.
Understanding Bump
Mapping
3. Bump mapping achieves its effect by
perturbing the surface normals of a 3D
model. Instead of modifying the
geometry, the technique alters how light
interacts with the surface, creating the
illusion of depth and texture without the
need for additional geometry.
How Bump Mapping Works
4. Bump maps come in various types,
including grayscale images or height
maps. In these maps, brighter areas
represent higher elevations, while darker
areas correspond to lower elevations.
The grayscale values influence the
surface normals during rendering.
Types of Bump Maps
5. Bump mapping is often integrated into
the shading process during rendering.
Modern rendering engines use shaders
to calculate how light interacts with
surfaces, and bump mapping shaders
modify this interaction based on the
information provided by the bump maps.
Integration with Shading
6. Bump mapping enhances the visual
appeal of 3D scenes by adding intricate
surface details. It is commonly used in
video games, computer-generated
imagery (CGI) for films, and simulations
to create realistic surfaces without
significantly increasing computational
demands.
Realism and Visual
Appeal
7. While bump mapping is effective for
creating the appearance of surface
detail, it doesn't alter the actual
geometry of a 3D model. This means
that close inspection may reveal the
lack of true physical depth. Additionally,
for more realistic results, techniques like
normal mapping or displacement
mapping may be employed.
Limitations and
Considerations
