Cloud-based dynamic GI for shared VR experiences

Abstract

Real-time high-fidelity rendering requires the use of expensive high-end hardware, even when rendering moderately complex scenes. Interactive streaming services and cloud gaming have somewhat mitigated the problem at the cost of response lag. In this article, we present Regular Grid Global Illumination (ReGGI), a distributed rendering pipeline that eliminates response lag and provides cloud-based dynamic GI for low-powered devices such as smartphones and the class of devices typically used in untethered VR headsets. Results show that ReGGI is scalable, has low bandwidth requirements, and produces images of comparable quality to instant radiosity.