Multi-texturing approach for paint appearance simulation on virtual vehicles

This paper proposes a new approach for paint appearance simulation. Coatings color and appearance change significantly according to lighting and observation conditions. The aim of this study is to propose both real time and accurate solutions for painted surface simulation. To solve real time constraints, we have chosen to simulate the paint appearance thanks to textures. Each texture represents an appearance criterion of the coating directly linked with the paint composition (layers and micro-components). A final multi-pass algorithm is applied to combine these different textures. Especially, we describe the building and the combination of the different textures used to simulate respectively color, metallic appearance, environment reflection and tension effects. In any case, a validation step will be performed through subjective and quantitative comparisons between simulation results and reality. Finally optimization for real time paint simulation, applied to driving simulation to increase traffic vehicle realism, is carried out.