When light passes
through the surface of water, it is diverted and concentrates at bright
spots and stripes at the ground. This effect is simulated by the Caustics
function. You can use it to create animated underwater textures.
The number of wave centers can
be controlled by the Count parameter. Increase this value
to create more chaotic caustics patterns. The Size attribute
defines the wave length. Decreasing this value whirls up the
water, too.
The height of the waves is set
by the Amplify value. Decreasing this value creates softer caustics.
With the Bias value you
can change the distance of the water surface to the ground. Use
this value to switch between flat and deep water.
Random Seed is used to
vary the position of the wave centers. Each value produces an
unique pattern.
The Time Offset parameter is
important for creating animated textures. Increase it to make the
waves move on. After 1000 time frames the pattern will
repeat.
Disable Auto Change Seed when
experimenting with the Time Offset value.
Tip:
Use the Animation Recorder at the Tools menu to easily
record animated caustics.