Image matching and the compound techniques in terrain reconstruction

Abstract

One of the major research areas in computer vision and digital photogrammetry is image matching for the reconstruction of a Digital Elevation Model (DEM). Image matching is the first and difficult step in terrain reconstruction. DEMs produced by digital photogrammetric workstations supply important information on land form for cartographers and Geographic Information System (GIS) developers and users. Since the accuracy of maps, orthophotographs and GIS databases must be within a specified range for appropriate analysis of the information and subsequent decision making. An accurate DEM is needed. Current image matching methods for DEM determination only supply a Digital Surface Model (DSM). This means matching results map be on top of objects such as buildings, or trees. This does not supply an accurate DEM. A compound approach for 3D terrain reconstruction is proposed. It combines image analysis and image matching methods and supplies a more accurate DEM.