Rapid 3D Modelling of an Existing Building using Photos

Abstract

A three-dimensional (3D) laser scanner is one of the most well known devices when it comes to creating a 3D model of existing bridges and buildings. Most 3D scanners can pick up point clouds very accurately, which can be used to create an accurate 3D model of existing objects. One may speculate that a 3D laser scanner can also be used to pick up the status of a construction project on the job site and transform them into a 3D computer model. However, most 3D laser scanners are still expensive and they are not easy use yet especially on a congested construction site. In addition, it takes a significant amount of time to create a 3D computer model using point clouds picked up by the laser scanner. As emerging photogrammetry techniques demonstrated the use of photos instead for rapid 3D modelling, one may be wondering 1) if this technique can be used to create a 3D model of a construction site quickly, and 2) if this model is accurate enough to help project managers make some decisions. This paper presents our test demonstrating the process of creating a 3D model of an existing building using photos. It presents some challenges we faced when taking photos and creating a 3D model. This paper also presents the method we came up with to create a 3D model of the entire building without using any control points.