Geometry image generation, attribute image generation, occupancy map generation, auxiliary data generation, and/or mesh data generation are performed by a pre-processor or a controller.
In geometry image generation 21002, a geometry image is generated based on the result of the patch generation. Geometry represents a point in a 3D space. The geometry image is generated using the occupancy map, which includes information related to 2D image packing of the patches, auxiliary data (patch data), and/or mesh data based on the patches. The geometry image is related to information such as a depth (e.g., near, far) of the patch generated after the patch generation.
In attribute image generation 21003, an attribute image is generated. For example, an attribute may represent a texture. The texture may be a color value that matches each point. According to embodiments, images of a plurality of attributes (such as color and reflectance) (N attributes) including a texture may be generated. The plurality of attributes may include material information and reflectance. According to an embodiment, the attributes may additionally include information indicating a color, which may vary depending on viewing angle and light even for the same texture.
In occupancy map generation 21004, an occupancy map is generated from the patches. The occupancy map includes information indicating presence or absence of data in the pixel, such as the corresponding geometry or attribute image.