Automatic reconstruction of 3D objects using a mobile camera

A method for the automatic reconstruction of 3D objects from multiple camera views for 3D multimedia applications is presented. Conventional 3D reconstruction techniques use equipment that restrict the flexibility of the user. In order to increase this flexibility, the presented method uses a simple measurement environment that consists of a new calibration pattern placed below the object. This allows simultaneous acquisition of object and pattern, and ensures that each view can be calibrated individually. From these calibrated camera views, a textured 3D wireframe model is estimated using a shape-from-silhouette approach and texture mapping of the original camera views. Experiments with this system have confirmed a significant gain in flexibility for the user and a drastic reduction in costs of technical equipment while at the same time maintaining model quality comparable to conventional reconstruction techniques. (C) 1999 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.