Updating textures dynamically for individual faces in a three.js environment

Question

Updating textures dynamically for individual faces in a three.js environment

I have been facing a difficult challenge for some time now, struggling to achieve my goal while unsure if I am on the right path.

The Objective

My current project involves developing a three.js web application that loads JavaScript models and assigns custom materials using three.js. Specifically, I am focusing on creating natural lighting effects (including Global Illumination and Ambient Occlusion) on a house model by dynamically toggling the visibility of objects in different combinations. However, the issue arises when objects are moved independently, causing sticky shadows due to pre-baked lighting and ambient occlusion textures rendered in three.js without any real-time light sources.

The Dilemma

To address this problem, I have alternate texture maps available for various combinations of lighting. My approach involves updating specific faces' textures during runtime to display shadow-free textures when necessary, rather than relying on predefined textures with baked shadows.

Current Strategy

After extensive research, I have identified two key findings:

To update textures dynamically, I must utilize THREE.MeshFaceMaterial with multiple alternative materials and reference their indices later.
Changing individual faces' materials at runtime is not feasible; instead, modifying an entire material affects all connected faces sharing that material index.

I am attempting to implement a solution outlined in this example: (WebGL / Three.js Different materials on one complex object (grid)).

1) Implementation Issues

While I have successfully altered face colors dynamically, changing textures proves problematic. When applying THREE.MeshFaceMaterial to a geometry, the mesh displays random colors instead of the intended texture. Debugging tools can help identify the source of this issue, as checking the DOM structure reveals proper material assignment without errors.

2) Alternative Approaches

If I manage to resolve the texture updating challenges, ensuring seamless transitions between varying textures remains a concern. Will incorporating vertex colors or custom shaders be required to blend textures smoothly? Additionally, exploring solutions like light mapping and texture blending may offer insights, yet they seem unrelated to my immediate needs of dynamic lighting adjustments.

As a novice in game development practices, I seek advice on refining my approach to overcome these obstacles efficiently. How would an experienced game developer tackle this particular challenge?

javascript three.js

Answer 1

Answer №1

Instead of relying on baked maps, I recommend exploring screen-space ambient occlusion (SSAO) techniques for a more adaptable approach when dealing with changing geometry. One of the simplest SSAO methods involves applying an unsharp mask to the depth of the scene. The original paper detailing this process can be found at: . This method is both elegant and straightforward - so much so that I was able to code my own version during a flight from San Francisco to New York with enough time left over for a nap.

Answer 2

Instead of relying on baked maps, I recommend exploring screen-space ambient occlusion (SSAO) techniques for a more adaptable approach when dealing with changing geometry. One of the simplest SSAO methods involves applying an unsharp mask to the depth of the scene. The original paper detailing this process can be found at: . This method is both elegant and straightforward - so much so that I was able to code my own version during a flight from San Francisco to New York with enough time left over for a nap.

Answer 3

Answer №2

To apply materials to all sides of a cube:

let materialIndex;
for (let i = 0; i < 12; i ++) {
    if(i%2==0) materialIndex = new_material_index;
    cube.geometry.faces[ i ].materialIndex = materialIndex;
}

The variable new_material_index should be replaced with the appropriate value.

To apply materials to one side, you need to pair up faces like {0,1}, ... {10,11}

Answer 4

To apply materials to all sides of a cube:

let materialIndex;
for (let i = 0; i < 12; i ++) {
    if(i%2==0) materialIndex = new_material_index;
    cube.geometry.faces[ i ].materialIndex = materialIndex;
}

The variable new_material_index should be replaced with the appropriate value.

To apply materials to one side, you need to pair up faces like {0,1}, ... {10,11}

Updating textures dynamically for individual faces in a three.js environment

The Objective

The Dilemma

Current Strategy

1) Implementation Issues

2) Alternative Approaches

Answer №1

Answer №2

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