Multi-sensor data fusion for accurate surface modeling

Abstract

Multi-sensor data fusion is advantageous while fusing data from heterogeneous range sensors, for scanning a scene containing both fine and coarse details. This paper presents a new multi-sensor range data fusion method with the aim to increase the descriptive contents of the entire generated surface model. First, a new training framework of the scanned range dataset to solve the relaxed Gaussian mixture model-based method by applying the convex relaxation technique is presented. The classification of the range data is based on a trained statistical model. In the data fusion experiments, a laser range sensor and Kinect (V1) are used. Based on the segmentation criterion, the range data fusion is performed by integration of the finer regions range data obtained from a laser range sensor with the coarser regions of the Kinect range data. The fused range information overcomes the weaknesses of the respective range sensors, i.e., the laser scanner is accurate but takes time while the Kinect is fast but not very accurate. The surface model of the fused range dataset generates a highly accurate, realistic surface model of the scene. The experimental results demonstrate robustness of the proposed approach.