User Manual

Sphere Map [3SPM]
The SphereMap node
Sphere Map Node Overview
The Sphere Map node can be used to create simulated environment mapping, also called
reflection mapping. Ray trace rendering a reflective scene can be very time consuming, but
sphere map-based reflection mapping can generate 360-degree reflections faster with little
loss of accuracy. For example, when creating a reflective environment, a sphere map is created,
large enough to surround the 3D object in your scene. The sphere is mapped with the
environment you want reflected and connected to the Reflection Color input on a Reflect node.
Inputs
The single image input on the Sphere Map node accepts a 2D image texture in an
equirectangular format (where the X-axis represents 0–360 degrees longitude, and the Y-axis
represents –90 to +90 degrees latitude.)
–
ImageInput: The orange Image input accepts a 2D RGBA image. Preferably, this is
an equirectangular image that shows the entire vertical and horizontal angle of view
up to 360 degrees.
Basic Node Setup
The Sphere Map node below is mapped with a spherical image to generate the environment
reflected on the Shape 3D. It is connected to the Reflection Color input on a Reflect node.
A Sphere Map node generates a reflective environment when
connected to a Reflect node Reflection Color input
Chapter – 83 3D Texture Nodes 1812