Generation and visualization of 3D photo-models using hybrid block adjustment with assumptions on the object shape

Three-dimensional photo-models are object models with texture information taken from photographs. They can be used, among other things, to present structural projects to the public and decision-makers. The geometrical modeling of our photo-model is supported by assumptions on the object shape. These assumptions are introduced as fictitious feature observations into the process of hybrid bundle block adjustment. The resulting geometrical model is then filled with texture by projecting the original photographs onto it. A suitable data format for such purposes is VRML (Virtual Reality Modeling Language) because such three-dimensional photo-models can be made available over the Internet. In addition, they can be combined very easily with other media such as texts, sounds, images, movies and, because of that, may serve as a basis for information systems. (C) 1998 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.