[comp.graphics] Definition of different types of light sources

gefuchs@top.cis.syr.edu (Gill E. Fuchs) (02/02/89)

     I would like to know the exact definition of Distant, point, linear and
directional light sources when using raytracing.  Any algorthims for
implementing these is well come too :-) ... And so is any pointers to
references dealing with the above.
     Could somebody also please tell me, how spot-light effects are created
using any of the above lighting types.

Thank you,

Vahid Koussari
gefuchs@top.cis.syr.edu

po0o+@andrew.cmu.edu (Paul Andrew Olbrich) (02/03/89)

Gill Fuchs writes:
>  Could somebody also please tell me, how spot-light effects are created
>  using any of the above lighting types.

You could always create a long cylinder around a light source to make it into
a directional cone of light.  In fact, you could even place a transparent
disk in front of the cylinder, and use it to change the light's color.

                                    - Drew
                                      strange red-haired kid
--
Drew Olbrich
po0o+@andrew.cmu.edu