MeshLab normalmap

Question

In the previous(1.3.3) Meshlab version,when choosing Render->shaders->normalmap, the normal map with the familiar blue-purple colormap would show the correct normal map: In the current (2016.12) version, the normal map is not shown,only the texture overlay: How can I show the normal colormap in the current version?

Answer 1

Although there is a predefined shader named "normalmap" available under Render -> Shaders menu, it will not render the model as you think it would ("familiar blue-purple colormap").

But you can modify those shaders to achieve what you are looking for.

1. Take a back up of the following files. You can find them in C:\Program Files\VCG\MeshLab\shaders or wherever you have installed meshlab

   • normalmap.vert
   • normalmap.frag

2. Edit the above files as follows. You can keep the comments.

   • normalmap.vert

     varying vec4 baseColor;
     void main(void)
     {
         gl_Position = ftransform();
         baseColor = vec4(gl_Normal, 1.0);
     }
     

   • normalmap.frag

     varying vec4 baseColor;
     void main(void)
     {
         gl_FragColor = baseColor;
     }
     

3. From Render menu, select Render -> Shaders -> normalmap.gdp

   

4. There you go! But remember this is a very simple shader to show normal map. If you want lighting and other effects you have to further edit the shaders.