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La Coupole: an SVBRDF measurement device for large and non-planar objects
Optics Express
|May 4, 2026
Summary
We developed La Coupole to measure Bidirectional Reflectance Distribution Functions (SVBRDF) for large objects, enabling virtual visualization of fragile artifacts under any lighting. This technology aids in digital preservation and inspection.
Area of Science:
- Computer Vision
- Computer Graphics
- Metrology
Background:
- Accurate digital representation of object appearance is crucial for virtual visualization and inspection.
- Measuring the Bidirectional Reflectance Distribution Function (SVBRDF) is key to capturing how objects reflect light.
- Existing methods may struggle with large, non-planar, or fragile objects.
Purpose of the Study:
- Introduce La Coupole, a novel device for measuring SVBRDF of large, non-planar objects.
- Enable the reproduction of an object's appearance under arbitrary lighting conditions.
- Facilitate virtual tools for visualization, inspection, and diagnosis of ancient and fragile objects.
Main Methods:
- Developed La Coupole device for SVBRDF measurement.
- Compared three BRDF reconstruction methods: spherical harmonics, radial basis functions, and a GGX microfacet model.
- Detailed geometric and radiometric calibration procedures and uncertainty analysis.
Main Results:
- La Coupole successfully measures SVBRDF for large, non-planar objects.
- Evaluated the performance of different BRDF representations for reconstruction.
- Quantified uncertainties associated with the calibration process.
Conclusions:
- La Coupole provides a viable solution for capturing the appearance of complex objects.
- The choice of BRDF representation impacts reconstruction accuracy.
- Accurate calibration is essential for reliable SVBRDF measurements.
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