3DCG art expression on a tablet device using integral photography

In conventional three-dimensional computer graphic (3DCG) technologies, a rendered image is two-dimensional. No information except that seen from a single viewpoint is included in the rendered image, although 3D models are used to construct a 3D scene. Even when rendering for binocular stereopsis is performed, the viewpoints are only two. This characteristic is a limitation of the conventional 3DCG expression. In this study, we propose a new approach to 3DCG art expression. Our system uses integral photography (IP) consisting of a tablet device and a fly's eye lens. Stereoscopy is possible without the need for the user to wear special glasses even if the device is placed in any orientation because parallax is caused not only in a horizontal position but also in all directions in IP. A ready-made fly's eye lens can be combined with various tablet devices that have different screen resolutions because the extended fractional view method is used. The device is so small and lightweight that users can appreciate 3D arts at any time and place. Notably, IP can reproduce such glittering effects because each minute convex lens of the IP display emits light in different directions. We produced a 3DCG artwork, called "Frozen Time," that fully employs the characteristics of our technology in motifs of "floating ice," "crystallized fossils," and an "opal flower."