For a university module covering modern graphics programming techniques, I implemented a lighting system utilising the Cook-Torrance Bidirectional Reflectance Distribution Function (BRDF) as well as vertex skinning and skeletal animation. Furthermode, I also produced an essay covering the past, present and future of lighting and shading techniques.

The lighting model also includes an image-based lighting option utilising a HDR skybox for additional reflective features to better represent the scene. This can be seen in the example below wherein the reflection of the skyscrapers (sampled from the skybox image) can be seen on the surface, simulating lighting illumination via reflection.

Creating a relationship between the model’s vertices and a set of bones, through a process known as binding or weighting, allows for the movement of vertices relative to the bone arrangement. This allows for the creation of complex animations, which can then be moved on the GPU with minimal overhead.

Demonstration of skeletal animation by blending between idle, walk and wave animations.

The overall mark recieved for this project was 85%. The associated essay for this project is available HERE!