A geometric model for linear-array-based terrestrial panoramic cameras

Digital panoramic cameras represent a powerful tool for generating high resolution images of scenes. They generate images of up to 100 000 x 10 000 pixels and are especially suited for 360 degrees recording of objects such as indoor scenes or city squares. The paper describes the development of a strict geometric model for rotating linear array panoramic cameras and the extension of the model by additional parameters adapting the camera model to the physical reality. The camera model has been implemented in a spatial resection and a bundle solution. The bundle solution also allows for the combined handling of panoramic and central perspective images. In several practical tests a potential accuracy of around 1/4 pixel was demonstrated.