BRDF analyzer

A method for determining a bidirectional reflectance distribution function of a subject comprising the steps of:

• placing an optically hollow structure against the subject;
• producing light;
• reflecting the light at various angles from the subject through the hollow structure;
• and
• measuring the bidirectional reflectance distribution function from the reflected light.

An apparatus for determining a bidirectional reflectance distribution function of a subject comprising:

• a light source for producing light;
• only one CCD camera for sensing the light;
• means for focusing the light between the light source and the sensing means and the subject;
• and
• a computer connected to the CCD camera for measuring the bidirectional reflectance distribution function of the subject from the light sensed by the sensing means.

An apparatus for determining a bidirectional reflectance distribution function of a subject comprising:

• a light source for producing light;
• means for taking sub-measurements of the subject with light from the light source without any physical movement between sub-measurements;
• and
• a computer connected to the taking means for measuring the bidirectional reflectance distribution function of the subject from the light sensed by the taking means.