Combining Rendered Graphics and Photographic Terrain Images

Dr. Stephen Dow

Department of Mathematics
University of Alabama in Huntsville

February 27, 2004
202 Madison Hall
3:00 PM (Coffee and Cookies at 2:30)

Abstract

Realistic computer graphic rendering of natural outdoor scenes is a difficult problem. For fixed viewpoint applications, an alternative is the use of terrain images derived from photographs. We have developed such a system, in which rendered vehicles and other effects are combined with photographic terrain images to create training simulations. In this talk we present an overview of some of the various problems involved in constructing these scenarios, including (1) stitching a panoramic terrain image, (2) aligning ordinary and infrared terrain images, (3) modeling the ground and above-ground occluding scene objects, and (4) placing rendered objects in the scene. Computer demonstrations will be used throughout the talk.