Neural Shadow Art

TL;DR

Neural Shadow Art introduces an implicit occupancy function-based method to design high-resolution, topologically complex shadow sculptures that match arbitrary images from various angles, surpassing previous voxel- and mesh-based approaches.

Contribution

It presents a novel flexible framework using implicit functions for shadow art, enabling accurate projections of complex geometries under diverse lighting and orientation conditions.

Findings

Enhanced projection accuracy for complex geometries

Supports arbitrary topologies at any resolution

Reduces material usage and promotes surface smoothness

Abstract

Shadow art is a captivating form of sculptural expression where the projection of a sculpture in a specific direction reveals a desired shape with high precision. In this work, we introduce Neural Shadow Art, which leverages implicit occupancy function representation to significantly expand the possibilities of shadow art. This representation enables the design of high-quality, 3D-printable geometric models with arbitrary topologies at any resolution, surpassing previous voxel- and mesh-based methods. Our method provides a more flexible framework, enabling projections to match input binary images under various light directions and screen orientations, without requiring light sources to be perpendicular to the screens. Furthermore, we allow rigid transformations of the projected geometries relative to the input binary images and simultaneously optimize light directions and screen orientations to ensure that the projections closely resemble the target images, especially when dealing with inputs of complex topologies. In addition, our model promotes surface smoothness and reduces material usage. This is particularly advantageous for efficient industrial production and enhanced artistic effect by generating compelling shadow art that avoids trivial, intersecting cylindrical structures. In summary, we propose a more flexible representation for shadow art, significantly improving projection accuracy while simultaneously meeting industrial requirements and delivering awe-inspiring artistic effects.