Immersive Display and Interactive Techniques for the Modeling and Rendering of Virtual Heritage Environments

In this paper we utilize some hybrid rendering techniques combining image-based, point-based and geometry-based technique for the modeling and display of immersive virtual heritage environments (VHEs). This paper also uses a generic computation method of indirect illumination based on Monte Carlo sampling and on the sequential analysis theory, which is faster and more automatic than classical methods. The resulting VHEs aim to realistically recreate archaeological site that can be displayed in a range of immersive VR systems using a high-quality, view-dependent algorithm, the observer can act just like the ancients by interacting with the objects of the scenes. The observers are able to participate to lumber or fish in VHEs. We implement a collaborative system platform based on multi-PC called Multipro, which provide a platform to display immersive application which can be extended to be used in the areas of urban planning/architecture and cultural heritage education. In order to display photo-realistic virtual environment we implement a prototype system which is implemented on the Multipro. In order to enhance realism of the virtual environment, we adopt a view-dependent texture mapping technique to rendering the heritage model, furthermore the interaction and animation also are included into Hemudu virtual scenes, finally the lighting, vegetation rendering and hybrid rendering are addressed for enhancing the sense of realism. Examples of the prototype system in use are described and demonstrated in this paper.