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Abstract
We create a library object, called VRFish, which is self contained and can be used with ease by
virtual reality programmers to create diverse and interesting underwater environments.
VRFish is a fish library object which is non CPU intensive.
VRFish creates the 3D fish form procedurally. It uses a mathematical function to determine the body profile. The basic fin shape allows for a wide range of structures, and
placements of fins. A number of different techniques have been implemented to obtain
more realistic and interesting fins. These include semi-translucent fins of the original
shape, and two different methods for masking the fin shape. The fish’s form sufficiently
approximates the true form of the fish to be realistic in appearance.
VRFish produces body animation by rotating the caudal, pelvic and pectoral fins back and
forth.
VRFish implements a schooling algorithm to produce fish with realistic, non scripted
swimming patterns. When fish of the same species are within the environment, they will
swim together, acting as a cohesive whole, closely resembling a school of fish.
Keywords: Modeling, Rendering, Animating, Fish, Procedural Modeling.