This shader creates the illusion of rounded edges at render time. It is primarily intended to prevent the unnecessary modelling of details; for example, if you use this shader, you don't need to create a table top with actual filleted or chamfered edges.
Because the edges of computer-generated object often look too sharp, this shader is useful for making edges look more realistic (rounded, chamfered, worn, or filleted in some way). Rounded edges tend to catch the light and create highlights that make edges more visually appealing.
The shader doesn't displace geometry: it is merely a shading effect (like bump mapping) and is best suited for straight edges and simple geometry, not advanced highly curved geometry.
This shader perturbs the normal vector, and should be applied where bump maps are normally used, such as the bump parameter on a surface shader. You can also use it in conjunction with the shader Architectural.
Except where otherwise noted, this work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 3.0 Unported License