Modeling Geometry
Modeling Approach
For this design, I used the Olympics logo as the image because this assignment reminds me of a ‘light show’ on iconic infrastructures, such as those during the Olympics ceremonies.
Using my shelter design from Module 3 as the base, I modified the two-layer design into a one-layer shelter as it works better for the embossed effect of the image. First, I panelized the surface by creating parameters for u and v panels (Rectangular Seamless Panel - 4pt). I chose 50x50 panels as the increased granularity makes the image look less pixelated. Then, I added the file path of the image to map the colors onto the panels. (Steps 1 and 2)
The image added can be mirrored or flipped by changing the order of the color values in the list (i.e. transposing or reversing them). To improve the functionality of the parameterization, I created the Boolean nodes to enable the user to decide if they want mirror and flip effects. Three nodes were made to flip the image vertically, horizontally or both. Otherwise, the default transposed image would be used. (Step 3)
To adjust the thickness of the panels to create an embossed or debossed effect, the color brightness node was used and its values ranging from 0 to 1 were resampled to a range of 1 to 3 using a RemapRange node. For the debossed effect (image is raised from the surface), this means that the standard thickness is 1 unit, with the brightness value further adding to the thickness.
On the other hand, for the embossed effect (image is cut into the surface), I started with a standard panel thickness of 5 units and subtracted the resampled values to derive the new height. For greater parameterization, I included a magnification factor that will allow the user to strengthen or reduce the effect of the embossing. (Step 4)
To enable the user to choose between either effect, I provided a GetItemAtIndex node, where 0 would lead to a debossed effect and 1 would lead to an embossed effect (Step 5).