Distortion Minimization: A Framework for the Design of Plane Geometric Anamorphosis

Abstract

Anamorphosis, as a drawing, represents shapes on a surface such that they appear in their natural form only under specific viewing conditions. Although anamorphoses are mainly studied in a historical context, they are currently experiencing a revival. Plane geometric anamorphoses are a specific sub-type of anamorphic drawings. Some practical problems may arise during the design and realization of plane geometric anamorphosis causing the 3D illusionistic effect to be impaired. The aim of this paper is to identify and analyze these problems. In the paper we use parametric analysis to quantify the distortion that may appear because the point of view is offset from the preferred point of view, and to simulate the deviations that can appear because of the errors in onsite realization. The analysis leads to a framework for the design of plane geometric anamorphosis that minimizes the impairment of the anamorphic illusion.

Application of Anamorphism in Product Design

“…Empler, 2017) There are several accuracy-related problems when using this methodthe verticals created from the viewpoint can often be skewed, and inaccuracies of a few centimetres can drastically affect the outcome. Vanishing points are often used for larger outdoor artworks to prevent these issues, however, at a smaller scale, they are more noticeable (Stojakovic & Tepavcevic, 2016). These problems are why many have taken to modern technology to help with the creation of planar anamorphic images.…”

“…There are two dominant types of anamorphosis, oblique and catoptric. Oblique anamorphosis is where the true undeformed image is only visible from one angle, oblique to the image/object plane (Helal Ayoub, 2015;Stojakovic & Tepavcevic, 2016). Catoptric anamorphosis, sometimes referred to as mirror anamorphosis is where the image is distorted in such a way that its true form can only be seen in the reflection of a curved mirror (Helal Ayoub, 2015).…”

“…There are several methods used for the creation of different forms of anamorphism, but most are built on the foundations of the traditional grid method when regarding oblique anamorphoses. This method was developed by Jean Francois Niceron in 1638, found within his book "La perspective curieuse ou magie artificielle des effets merveilleux" (Stojakovic & Tepavcevic, 2016). Figure 2 shows both the distortion grid (left) and the regular formation grid (right).…”