topic How to simulate a linear flourescent light? in Libraries & objects

How to simulate a linear flourescent light?

Anonymous — Thu, 07 Jun 2007 12:30:25 GMT

Is there a way to simulate a linear flourescent lighting fixture in GDL script, where the lighting element is long and light is emitted along the entire length? It seems like the LIGHT command can only make spot lights and spread lights. I am trying to make a long skinny overhead recessed light. A single light command is not realistic and multiple light commands aren't practical for speedy rendering. Any ideas? Thanks all.

Re: How to simulate a linear flourescent light?

Anonymous — Thu, 07 Jun 2007 14:08:32 GMT

To make the tube itself glow you need to set the emission color and intensity of the material. This makes it look "glowing" but does not cast light. I don't think there is any linear light source so you will have to be creative about the subtle placement of point sources.

Re: How to simulate a linear flourescent light?

Dwight — Thu, 07 Jun 2007 20:30:57 GMT

There's a solution to this in my book that serves two masters:

- fakes a linear light along a wall

- provides diffuse fluorescent light-like light to the general space.

It is a large diameter light cone.