A Ray tracing algorithm for progressive radiosity

Abstract

A new method for computing form-factors within a progressive radiosity approach is presented. Previously, the progressive radiosity approach has depended on the use of the hemi-cube algorithm to determine form-factors. However, sampling problems inherent in the hemi-cube algorithm limit its usefulness for complex images. A more robust approach is described in which ray tracing is used to perform the numerical integration of the form-factor equation. The approach is tailored to provide good, approximate results for a low number of rays, while still providing a smooth continuum of increasing accuracy for higher numbers of rays. Quantitative comparisons between analytically derived form-factors and ray traced form-factors are presented.