Archive notice: This article was originally published on September 11, 2003. Links and embedded videos are preserved as part of the historical record.
What Flamingo 1.1 represents for photorealistic image calculation, Penguin 1.0 is for non-photorealistic calculation. The focus is not on true-to-life representation, but on models with an artistic aspect whose graphical and visual appearance is to be optimized. This allows designers to give visual expression to their idea even at a very early stage of development without presenting a finished model or having to address details that are not yet relevant at this point.
Penguin 1.0 provides a set of functions that accelerate and simplify the rendering of models for conception and illustration purposes. With Sketch mode, the user has the option of creating a simulated watercolor or ink drawing from their design work at the click of a mouse. Or of creating the impression that their model was drawn freehand with a pencil. Configurable parameters for wavy or straight line routing as well as for line width, intensity and colour facilitate the artistic design of the design.
A second render mode even brings some fun into play. Cartoon or comic versions of the model previously constructed with Rhinoceros can be created effortlessly. There is also the option of programming custom rendering types based on the two rendering modes Sketch and Cartoon.
Penguin 1.0 supports all conventional data formats such as TGA, BMP, PCX, PNG and JPEG and allows drawing on a Background Bitmap. The option of combining Flamingo-rendered models with Penguin-rendered models also opens up interesting perspectives.
Penguin 1.0 runs as a plug-in only on the NURBS free-form surface modeler Rhinoceros. Consequently also on all conventional Windows desktops and laptops with a Pentium, Celeron or higher processor, with at least 40 MB of hard-disk volume, 64 MB of RAM, and the operating systems Windows 98/NT/ME/2000/XP for Intel or AMD.
The full version of the plug-in costs around 226 euros, while the educational version for students or teachers is available for around 110 euros. A classroom license for schools or universities is offered at a price of 435 euros.
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