GPU based direct illuminance values computation for interactive lighting CAD

Abstract

In this work we focus our attention on real-time direct illuminance values computation using dedicated 3D graphics hardware compatible with OpenGL 2 standard. Our method works with real light intensity distribution measured for lighting fixtures by enconding it in a texture for GPU data comunication. Illuminance values are reprensented in real-time by using a perceptual based colour scale. Illuminance computation is limited to direct light. This is not a severe limitation for exterior and road lighting design, and nevertheless it is a useful project parameter for interior lighting design too.