Real-time fur over arbitrary surfaces

Abstract: We introduce a method for real-time rendering of fur on surfaces of arbitrary topology. As a pre-process, we simulate virtual hair with a particle system, and sample it into a volume texture. Next, we parameterize the texture over a surface of arbitrary topology using "lapped textures" — an approach for applying a sample texture to a surface by repeatedly pasting patches of the texture until the surface is covered. The use of lapped textures permits specifying a global direction field for the fur over the surface. At runtime, the patches of volume textures are rendered as a series of concentric shells of semi-transparent medium. To improve the visual quality of the fur near silhouettes, we place "fins" normal to the surface and render these using conventional 2D texture maps sampled from the volume texture in the direction of hair growth. The method generates convincing imagery of fur at interactive rates for models of moderate complexity. Furthermore, the scheme allows real-time modification of viewing and lighting conditions, as well as local control over hair color, length, and direction.