GPU-Based Monte-Carlo Volume Raycasting

Abstract

This paper presents a practical, high-quality, hardware-accelerated volume rendering approach including scattering, environment mapping, and ambient occlusion. We examine the application of stochastic raytracing techniques for volume rendering and provide a fast GPU-based prototype implementation. In addition, we propose a simple phenomenological scattering model, closely related to the Phong illumination model that many artists are familiar with. We demonstrate our technique being capable of producing convincing images, yet flexible enough for digital productions in practice.