Creation of virtual reality experiences for the web: shader programming for artists
Alvis Misjuns, Arnis Cīrulis · 2024
Virtual Reality (VR) has established itself as a reliable and efficient tool for education and training, simulating environments that otherwise would be impossible or difficult to organise in a physical environment. In these fields, it is important to create convincing and accurate 3D visualisations, e.g. traumas, lighting, interaction effects and other processes that enhance immersiveness. Creating visualisations requires skills in 3D modeling, texturing and shader programming; the latter can significantly enhance 3D visual representation and, also, is the most inaccessible to 3D artists and enthusiasts due to its technical complexity. There are some tools and guides already available, which contribute to the steps for easier shader programming and integration. In the case of virtual reality some more serious technical and visual limitations are present, which require a sophisticated knowledge in 3D computer graphics and forces creators to find innovative technical solutions for 3D visualisations. This research focuses on the free and open source framework A-Frame for developing VR content for the web and the currently available shader programming tools. Temporary and future solutions are provided for an attempt to lower the entry barrier for 3D artists to create shaders for virtual reality content for the web.