REVES Research team

Rendering and virtual environments with sound

Team presentation

Our research focuses on computer rendering of images and sound. Our goal is to develop novel algorithms to improve the speed and quality of computer-generated images and spatialized audio, as well as that of virtual and augmented environments. We are specifically interested in the interaction between the two media, since it is well established that the sense of immersion and presence is greatly enhanced in virtual environments when combining them.

We investigate "plausible rendering" approaches, for both images and sound, which are typically approximate but efficient techniques. We also develop algorithms for slower, but accurate rendering approaches, which are often based on simulation of the underlying physical phenomena. Developing smooth transitions between the two extremes is an important concern in our research, with a recent emphasis on real time display.

We explore the link between rendering and modelling by generating detail and content on-the-fly. In particular, we develop synthesis-by-example algorithms and data structures to improve the appearance of objects.

The rendering algorithms we develop can be applied to virtual and augmented environments. We develop relighting methods which allow us to virtually change lighting conditions, striving to make them efficient and usable. We also investigate how to enrich 3D scenes with sound, and appropriate representations to improve interaction in these environments.

Through our industrial and academic collaborations we are applying our research to virtual heritage, architecture and urban planning, computer games and audio-visual production.

Research themes

  • Rendering for Images and Sound:
    • Plausible Rendering using Alternative Representations.
    • High-Quality Rendering for Simulation.
  • Virtual and Augmented Reality with Sound
    • Simple and Efficient Re-lighting.
    • Enriching environments with Sound.
    • Appropriate representations for 3D interaction.
  • Applications:
    • Computer Games.
    • Virtual/Augmented Reality for Architecture and Urban Planning.
    • Virtual Heritage.
    • Audio-Visual Production.

International and industrial relations

  • Contracts, industrial collaborations with, or donations from: EdenGames/ATARI, Allegorithmic, Autodesk.
  • European projects CROSSMOD "Cross-modal perceptual interaction and rendering: a New Generation of Audiovisual Virtual Environments" (IRCAM, CNRS, U Pisa, TU Wien, U Bristol, U Erlangen), REVES is the coordinator. IST/CREATE (2002-2005): "Constructivist Mixed Reality For Design, Education, and Cultural Heritage" (University Colledge London, Foundation of the Hellenic World, RealViz, CSTB, University of Cyprus, PERCRO).
  • Close collaboration with other french or foreign labs: ARTIS(Grenoble), IRCAM, CNRS (UPMC UMR 7593), University of Girona, University of Erlangen, Microsoft Research (Redmond and Asia), Cornell University, University of Konstanz, TU Berlin.

Keywords: Virtual and augmented reality Sound rendering Spatialisation Alternative representations Lighting Relighting

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