Document Type
Article
Publication Date
11-2-2015
Abstract
A popular class of BRDF models is the microfacet models, where geometric optics is assumed. In contrast, more complex physical optics models may more accurately predict the BRDF, but the calculation is more resource intensive. These seemingly disparate approaches are compared in detail for the rough and smooth surface approximations of the modified Beckmann-Kirchhoff BRDF model, assuming Gaussian surface statistics. An approximation relating standard Fresnel reflection with the semi-rough surface polarization term, Q, is presented for unpolarized light. For rough surfaces, the angular dependence of direction cosine space is shown to be identical to the angular dependence in the microfacet distribution function. For polished surfaces, the same comparison shows a breakdown in the microfacet models. Similarities and differences between microfacet BRDF models and the modified Beckmann-Kirchhoff model are identified. The rationale for the original Beckmann-Kirchhoff F2bk geometric term relative to both microfacet models and generalized Harvey-Shack model is presented. A modification to the geometric F2bk term in original Beckmann-Kirchhoff BRDF theory is proposed.
Source Publication
Optics Express
Recommended Citation
Samuel D. Butler, Stephen E. Nauyoks, and Michael A. Marciniak, "Comparison of microfacet BRDF model to modified Beckmann-Kirchhoff BRDF model for rough and smooth surfaces," Opt. Express 23, 29100-29112 (2015). https://doi.org/10.1364/OE.23.029100
Comments
© 2015 Optical Society of America. Users may use, reuse, and build upon the article, or use the article for text or data mining, so long as such uses are for non-commercial purposes and appropriate attribution is maintained. All other rights are reserved.
Published under the terms of the under the terms of the OSA Open Access Publishing Agreement and OSA's open access policies.