Some PhD students at the University of Illinois have created a system that allows for a computer to insert fake objects into standard photographs. This isn’t just some algorithm for layering and image insertion. Rather, the system allows for a 3D understanding of converging lines, light sources and objects. Once it has learned the environment, they can insert live, dynamic objects into the photo where it inherits light properties and can interact like pool balls on a table. (NOTE: Some browsers may not recognize the embedded Quicktime object in which case you’ll have to follow the link for the video demo.)