Abstract View Manchu Virtual Model of the Qianlong

Abstract View Manchu: Virtual Model of the Qianlong emperor’s tomb 3 d Modeling software allows for the creation of realistic virtual environments without the extremely complex programming involved in real-time 3 D graphics, but is not conducive to interactivity. Our project was to realistically recreate a Qing dynasty tomb in an easily distributable form that would allow a user to virtually navigate the model. We settled on a design that mixed the graphical sophistication of pre-rendered graphics and the portability of web applications. To achieve interactivity, we designed a virtual camera system and rendered a series of movies depicting movement about the tomb. We compiled these movies into a Flash application and programmed a user interface. The completed walk-through and Flash application is an example of technologies converging to provide a new type of educational tool. Design Modeling These are the floor plans that we created after measuring and drawing the layout of the Tomb. We traveled to Northern China during Winter Break and took photos and dimensions of the tomb. The modeling was done in 3 D Studio Max and used all of the exact measurements we acquired from the Tomb. A substantial amount of the modeling was extruding lines to create curved ceilings and arches. Texturing (Photo/Bump Map/Render) We implemented bump-mapping techniques to virtually carve the walls of our model. At render time, lighter shades appear to be Extruded and darker shades appear to be recessed. Results Shown here are examples of photographs and the corresponding renders of our model. Steve La. Plante, Bryce Levin, Michael Losure Advisor: Prof Hannay Client: Prof Cura