Conversion of satellite images to 3-D display.

• Main Author: Minnaar, Ursula
• Published: 2008
• Subjects: three-dimensional display systems; remote-sensing images
• Online Access: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/505

This dissertation investigates the feasibility of creating real-time three-dimensional images, using data obtained from satellites. The aim is to enhance satellite imaging applications, by utilizing the normal 3-D visual perceptions of humans. A study is made of the different methods developed to create the illusion of seeing a three-dimensional object from essentially two-dimensional images. 3-D display devices based on the principles of human stereoscopic vision do exist. Other 3-D display techniques include holograms and volumetric displays. Satellite images are used in a wide range of applications, from urban planning, to earth surveillance, and even weather prediction. In the past, satellite imaging was the express domain of experts, trained in the analysis and interpretation of satellite images. However, in recent years, the acquisition and analysis of satellite images have been greatly facilitated by the growing number of commercial satellites in our skies, as well as readily available software packages. Satellite images are available in many types of image formats, and can represent a large variety of information about an area. The model developed for this dissertation (the ACSI-3D model) proposes a method for the conversion of satellite images to suitable input for a stereoscopic 3-D display device. The model covers the process from initial image acquisition to the final display. It consists of four basic phases: Image Acquisition, Stereopsis, Sequencing and Synchronization, and Display. The “Stereoscopic Image Pair Creator” prototype was developed to test parts of this model. === Ehlers, E.M., Prof.