云是一种常见的自然现象,它没有确定的表面、确定的边界,且其特征不断变化,对它的模拟被认为是计算机图形学中最具有挑战性的课题之一,在飞行模拟器、电影制作、虚拟战场仿真等方面具有广泛的应用前景。从云的形状、动态特性、光照效果三个方面,对现有的云的模拟方法进行了综述,分析了几种典型算法,讨论了现有算法存在的问题和进一步的发展方向。
Cloud is a natural phenomenon existed here and there. For its special character in no definite surface, no definite boundary, and time-changing shape, cloud rendering is regarded as one of the most challenge subject in computer graphics. Cloud simulation has great potentiai applications, such as the flight simulation, movie, and virtual battlefield etc. This paper described an overview of the algorithm about cloud rendering from shape, dynamic character and light scattering effect aspect. Further more, analyzed several typical approaches in detail. Finally, discussed the existed problems and future work.