When creating a CG image of an object, rendering is based on data for three aspects related to the object: its three-dimensional (3-D) geometry, its surface reflectance, and the light source. If these three data components can be obtained in sufficient detail, users can reconstruct or relight (e.g., move or adjust the light source) images based on principles similar to those of CG rendering.
To support research into complex textures, Canon has prepared a research environment supporting high-precision measurements to enable the direct acquisition of textural information. Texture depends on the reflectance properties of light on the surface of an object, properties that change with the incidence angle of light, the material and shape of the object, and the viewing direction. Accordingly, measurements are made by altering the angles of optical receivers and light sources to acquire data known as BRDF (Bidirectional Reflectance Distribution Function).
Looking ahead to the day when texture acquisition will be possible through image processing, Canon has begun looking into inverse-rendering technology. When realized, such technology would provide digital cameras and other consumer devices with texture-acquisition capabilities.