Rendering Methods for Augmented Reality

Augmented reality (AR) is a fast-growing application ofcomputer graphics. AR systems overlay computer-generated graphicsover the real world. The research described in this book puts anemphasis on specialized rendering techniques for AR. In the firstpart of this book, a new system for medical AR is discussed, whichis based on a commercial surgical navigation device. A method forhandling occlusion makes it possible to correctly render theocclusion of graphical objects by the anatomy of the patient. Thesecond part of this book introduces the concept of stylizedaugmented reality, which applies artistic or illustrativestylization methods to AR images. Since the same type ofstylization is applied to virtual and real scene elements, theybecome difficult to distinguish. Algorithms for the cartoon-likeand painterly stylization of AR videos are described. In the thirdpart of this book, a novel illustrative visualization method isdescribed. This algorithm for iso-surfaces and polygonal modelsrenders a representation of a surface and structures hidden behindit. An extension of this newly developed illustrative display stylewas also applied to AR video streams.