Abstract
The Beard-Maxwell reflection model is presented as a new local reflection model for use in realistic image synthesis. The model is important because there is a public domain database of surface reflection parameters, the Nonconventional Exploitation Factors Data System (NEFDS), that utilizes a modified form of the Beard-Maxwell model. Additional surface reflection parameters for the database can be determined because a measurement protocol, using existing radiometric instruments, has been specified. The Beard-Maxwell model is also of historical significance because it predates many computer graphics reflection models and because it includes several features that are incorporated into existing local reflection models. The NEFDS is described and a special shader is developed for use with NEFDS. The shader makes use of the alias method for determining random variates from discrete probability distributions. Realistic images are synthesized from the existing database and from samples that were characterized using the measurement protocol.
