Relative and Absolute Orientation - 8.6.3 | 8. Photogrammetry | Geo Informatics
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8.6.3 - Relative and Absolute Orientation

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Relative Orientation

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0:00
Teacher
Teacher

Today we will explore relative orientation. This is the process used to align a pair of stereo images so they simulate the original geometrical layout of the captured scene. Can anyone tell me why this might be important?

Student 1
Student 1

It helps us understand the depth and spatial relationships in 3D models!

Student 2
Student 2

So, are we trying to align them to get a clearer view of how things relate in space?

Teacher
Teacher

Exactly! We align the images based on their common points, often referred to as tie points. This is crucial for creating the 3D sensation. Remember, relative orientation focuses solely on the images themselves. Let's create an acronym to remember that: R.O., which stands for 'Relative Orientation.'

Student 3
Student 3

R.O. – got it!

Teacher
Teacher

Great! Can anyone summarize the role of relative orientation?

Student 4
Student 4

It helps us see how things fit together in 3D by aligning stereo images!

Teacher
Teacher

Excellent! So in summary: relative orientation aligns images without external reference, focusing on stereo pairs. Now, let’s move to absolute orientation.

Absolute Orientation

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0:00
Teacher
Teacher

Now that we understand relative orientation, let's discuss absolute orientation. Why do you think we need to relate the stereo images to real-world coordinates?

Student 1
Student 1

So that we can apply the data to real maps and know exact measurements!

Student 2
Student 2

And it helps integrate with other geospatial data, right?

Teacher
Teacher

Exactly! Absolute orientation involves scaling and transforming the relative model to fit into a specific ground coordinate system, making it realistic for applications in civil engineering and mapping. To remember this, think of A.O. for 'Absolute Orientation.'

Student 3
Student 3

A.O.! That makes sense!

Teacher
Teacher

Can anyone explain how absolute orientation achieves this transformation?

Student 4
Student 4

By using ground control points to accurately place the photogrammetry data on the map!

Teacher
Teacher

Exactly! Ground control points are crucial for achieving absolute orientation. In summary, while relative orientation focuses on aligning stereo images, absolute orientation scales them to integrate with real-world coordinates. Now, let's solidify our understanding with exercises.

Introduction & Overview

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Quick Overview

This section introduces relative and absolute orientation procedures in photogrammetry, providing the framework for converting 2D photographic coordinates to 3D ground coordinates.

Standard

The process of orientation in photogrammetry is crucial for transforming two-dimensional photographic data into three-dimensional spatial information. Relative orientation aligns stereo images, while absolute orientation scales and transforms this information to correspond with ground coordinates. Both procedures are vital for accurate mapping and modeling in geo-informatics.

Detailed

Relative and Absolute Orientation

In photogrammetry, the orientation process is essential for transforming 2D photographic coordinates into 3D ground coordinates. This process consists of two primary methods: relative orientation and absolute orientation.

  • Relative Orientation: This involves aligning a stereo pair of images to replicate the geometry of the original scene as captured during exposure. It focuses on the relationship between the two images without considering outside reference frames, effectively allowing for depth perception and 3D modeling of the scene.
  • Absolute Orientation: In contrast, absolute orientation goes a step further by scaling and transforming the relative model to fit within a specific ground coordinate system. This involves the implementation of specific ground control points (GCPs) to ensure that the photogrammetric outputs reflect real-world geospatial data accurately.

Understanding these concepts is fundamental in fields like civil engineering, as they ensure the accuracy and reliability of spatial data derived from photogrammetric techniques.

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Relative Orientation

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• Relative Orientation: Aligning a stereo pair to simulate geometry of original exposure.

Detailed Explanation

Relative orientation is the process of aligning two overlapping images (a stereo pair) so that they reflect the geometry of how the photographs were originally captured. This alignment is crucial for creating a 3D model from the two images, as it allows for accurate perception of depth and spatial relationships between objects in the photographs. In practice, this means adjusting the images so that they match in terms of perspective and scale, which can be influenced by factors such as camera angle and position during the photo capture.

Examples & Analogies

Imagine you are taking two photographs of a building from slightly different angles, like taking a personal selfie and then having a friend take a picture of you from a few steps to the left. To create a 3D model of yourself, you would need to align those two pictures so they show you in a way that looks natural and matches how you appear from both angles. This process of aligning the images corresponds to relative orientation in photogrammetry.

Absolute Orientation

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• Absolute Orientation: Scaling and transforming the relative model to ground coordinates.

Detailed Explanation

Absolute orientation takes the geometry obtained from the relative orientation of the stereo images and transforms it into real-world coordinates that can be referred to as ground coordinates. This involves scaling the model so that it matches actual distances on the ground and rotating or shifting it to align with a specific coordinate system. Essentially, absolute orientation provides a way to position the 3D model accurately on the Earth’s surface, meaning that any measurements taken from the model are true to their real-world counterparts.

Examples & Analogies

Think of constructing a map of a city using a model of the city created from photos. After building the model using relative orientation, absolute orientation is like placing that model onto a real map so that the distances and locations of streets and buildings match perfectly with what exists in the actual city. By using landmarks and ground control points, the model is accurately positioned, allowing you to navigate using it just like you would with a traditional map.

Definitions & Key Concepts

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Key Concepts

  • Relative Orientation: Aligns stereo images for 3D perception.

  • Absolute Orientation: Transforms image data to correspond with real-world coordinates.

Examples & Real-Life Applications

See how the concepts apply in real-world scenarios to understand their practical implications.

Examples

  • When creating a 3D model of a building, relative orientation allows us to see the structure's various angles, while absolute orientation ensures that this model is correctly placed on current city maps.

  • In surveying, using ground control points for absolute orientation guarantees the survey data corresponds to exact locations on the Earth.

Memory Aids

Use mnemonics, acronyms, or visual cues to help remember key information more easily.

🎵 Rhymes Time

  • Aligning pairs, to see in 3D, relative is key, for all to agree.

📖 Fascinating Stories

  • Imagine two friends taking pictures of a mountain from different viewpoints. They adjust their angles until their photos look the same, just like using relative orientation. To get the mountain onto a map, they measure it accurately with GPS, just like absolute orientation.

🧠 Other Memory Gems

  • R.O. for Relative, A.O. for Absolute – that helps distinguish the two types of orientations.

🎯 Super Acronyms

R.O.A.O. - Remember 'Relative Over Absolute Orientation'.

Flash Cards

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Glossary of Terms

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  • Term: Relative Orientation

    Definition:

    The process of aligning a stereo pair of photogrammetric images to simulate the original geometric layout of the captured scene.

  • Term: Absolute Orientation

    Definition:

    The method of scaling and transforming the relative model to fit within a specified ground coordinate system using ground control points.

  • Term: Ground Control Points (GCPs)

    Definition:

    Reference points used to ensure the accuracy of photogrammetric mapping.