Seamless Integration of Stylized Renditions in Computer-Generated Landscape Visualization

Abstract

We propose enhancements and generalizations of 3D real-time computer visualization techniques used in landscape planning and architecture. As opposed to pure photorealism, illustration and non-photorealistic (NPR) techniques can be particularly efficient in conveying and transmitting selected visual information. By combining the power and accuracy of photorealistic models with the flexibility of abstract sketches, we have developed a flexible environment for the automatic creation of sketchy real-time rendering of landscapes. This allows for freedom of choosing the style and degree of abstraction of the visualization. All elements that contribute to the picture are seamlessly integrated and parameterized, including the transition from photorealism to non-photorealism. We expect a significant improvement of computer-aided landscape visualizations in our approach as such renditions are no longer limited to photorealism which often entails too much detail.