Nonlinear perspective projections and magic lenses: 3D view deformation

Nonlinear projections and implementations are largely unexplored in 3D environments. A technique for generating deformed 3D visual effects using nonlinear perspective projections allows real-time navigation of 3D environments. The authors derive their deformation algorithms from 3D nonlinear perspective projections, which consider factors such as depth, view angle, and camera position-parameters 2D distortion algorithms don't consider. Distortion from the methods is more realistic than that of the 2D image distortion. In addition, the algorithms allow partially linear magnification or nonlinear deformation of 3D views in real time with less performance degradation. The authors also developed an experimental system that lets one deform 3D virtual worlds for real-time navigation. This article is available with a short video documentary on CD-ROM.