4.15.2 - Stereo-plotting instruments
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Introduction to Stereo-plotting Instruments
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Today, we’ll explore stereo-plotting instruments, which are vital for extracting 3D coordinates from 2D images. Can anyone tell me what these instruments are primarily used for?
They are used in photogrammetry for making topographic maps!
Exactly! These instruments help create accurate digital representations of terrain. Now, what do you think the first step in using these instruments is?
Maybe it's laying out the aerial photographs?
Good thinking! The first step involves orienting the photographs in relation to each other.
Interior and Relative Orientation
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After laying out the photographs, we need to perform interior orientation. This aligns the images correctly—why is this crucial?
Because if they're not aligned, we won't get the right 3D model!
Right! This alignment ensures that light rays intersect correctly to form a three-dimensional model. Can anyone describe the process of relative orientation?
Isn't it about making sure the positions of the cameras during the image capture are accurately represented?
Spot on! It's about creating a correct model based on how the images were taken.
Types of Stereo-plotting Instruments
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Now, let’s discuss the different types of stereo-plotters. Can anyone name one type?
There are direct optical projection instruments?
That's correct! Direct optical projection uses light rays to form a model. What about the other types?
There are also mechanical projection instruments.
Exactly! Mechanical instruments simulate light ray projection through binocular optics.
What’s the advantage of analytical plotters?
Analytical plotters digitize and calculate coordinates, which increases accuracy significantly.
Introduction & Overview
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Quick Overview
Standard
It details the functions and processes of stereo-plotters in photogrammetry, including the orientation, calibration, and the use of different types of stereo-plotting instruments such as direct optical, analytical, and softcopy plotters.
Detailed
Stereo-plotting Instruments
Stereoscopic plotting instruments, or stereo-plotters, are essential tools in photogrammetry that help in producing accurate 3D coordinates for terrain features from their corresponding image positions. The devices allow for the processing of stereo pairs of aerial photographs, facilitating the derivation of precise topographic maps and digital data. The section outlines the methodologies involved, encompassing both relative and absolute orientations.
Once the interior orientations are completed using overlapping aerial images, the process for creating stereo models is initiated. This involves projecting light through diapositives to identify intersections, forming a three-dimensional model of the terrain. The instrument's effectiveness lies in its ability to handle various types of data, including oblique and terrestrial photographs. There are four primary categories of stereo-plotters: direct optical projection instruments, mechanical projection instruments, analytical stereo-plotters, and softcopy stereo-plotters. Each type has unique functions and operational methodologies, emphasizing the advancement of technology from analog systems to digital environments. Furthermore, modern photogrammetric software plays a key role in enhancing the capabilities and applications of these instruments.
Audio Book
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Introduction to Stereo-plotting Instruments
Chapter 1 of 4
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Chapter Content
Stereoscopic plotting instruments or stereo-plotters are designed to provide accurate solutions for object point positions from their corresponding image positions in a stereo-pair.
Detailed Explanation
Stereo-plotting instruments, also known as stereo-plotters, are specialized devices used in photogrammetry to determine the 3D coordinates of points on the ground from overlapping photographic images. These instruments work by utilizing the concept of stereoscopy, where two slightly different perspectives of the same scene are combined to create a three-dimensional model. By analyzing where light rays from the left and right photographs intersect, we can derive accurate positions for various features on the terrain.
Examples & Analogies
Think of stereo-plotting instruments like a pair of VR goggles that allow you to see 3D environments. Just as VR goggles present images from slightly different angles to create depth perception, stereo-plotters use two overlapping photos from aerial photography to create a three-dimensional representation of the landscape.
Process of Creating a Stereo-Model
Chapter 2 of 4
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Chapter Content
With the diapositives in place, light rays are projected through them; and when rays from corresponding images on the left and right diapositives intersect below, they create a stereo-model.
Detailed Explanation
The creation of a stereo-model begins with placing two overlapping diapositives (transparencies) in the stereo-plotter. Light is projected through these images. When corresponding features from both images are aligned, the light rays intersect at a point below the instruments, representing a specific location on the ground. This intersection point is then used to determine the 3D coordinates (x, y, z) of that feature. The precision of this process relies on the correct orientation of the images.
Examples & Analogies
Imagine you're using a pair of binoculars to look at a distant mountain peak. You might see the left view with the left eye and the right view with the right eye. By merging these views, you can perceive depth and accurately gauge distances. Stereo-plotting works similarly, allowing us to visualize and measure land features in 3D.
Orientation Procedures
Chapter 3 of 4
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Chapter Content
After relative orientation is completed, absolute orientation is performed. In this process, the stereo-model is brought to the desired scale and levelled with respect to a reference datum.
Detailed Explanation
Once the stereo-model is created through relative orientation, the next step is absolute orientation. This involves scaling the model to ensure it accurately represents real-world distances and heights. It also requires leveling the images to a known reference point on the ground. The reference datum serves as a baseline to prevent errors related to irregular terrain or image distortion. Achieving accurate absolute orientation is crucial for producing reliable maps and models.
Examples & Analogies
Think of setting up a miniature landscape for a model train. First, you adjust the train tracks to match the layout (relative orientation), then you ensure it’s all level and in the right proportions using a ruler and a marked base (absolute orientation). Just like that, stereo-plotters must align their models to real-world standards.
Measurement of Points in the 3D Model
Chapter 4 of 4
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Chapter Content
After completing the orientations, measurements from the 3-D model may be made and recorded, but it is now done in digital form.
Detailed Explanation
After establishing the orientations, users can begin measuring distances and positions from the 3D model created within the stereo-plotter. The data collected is digitally recorded, which enhances accuracy and simplifies the process. Measurements can include horizontal (planimetric) positions as well as vertical (elevation) data, providing complete spatial information necessary for topographic mapping.
Examples & Analogies
Imagine a 3D blueprint for a building. After setting the dimensions and layout, you pull out a digital tape measure to record distances directly from your plans. Similarly, after building the 3D model with a stereo-plotter, measurements are taken digitally for precision and ease.
Key Concepts
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Stereo-plotting Instruments: Tools used to extract 3D coordinates from stereo images.
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Interior Orientation: Aligning images accurately to start the 3D modeling process.
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Relative Orientation: Adjusting images based on their captured orientation to build models.
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Analytical Plotters: Advanced instruments for precise measurement and data processing.
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Softcopy Technology: Viewing stereo images digitally for enhanced processing.
Examples & Applications
Aerial photographs are taken using stereo-plotters to create a topographic map of a mountainous area.
Developing a digital elevation model (DEM) through analytical stereo-plotters for urban planning.
Memory Aids
Interactive tools to help you remember key concepts
Rhymes
Stereo plotting makes it hot, turning photos into 3D spots.
Stories
Imagine a photographer taking aerial shots; not just for fun, but to plot what they've caught!
Memory Tools
Remember the acronym STAR: S for Stereoscopic, T for Triangulation, A for Accuracy, and R for Representation.
Acronyms
Remember 'S.P.A.C.E' for types of plotters
for Softcopy
for Projection
for Analytical
for Calibration
for Efficiency.
Flash Cards
Glossary
- Stereoplotter
An instrument used in photogrammetry to derive 3D coordinates from overlapping images.
- Interior Orientation
The process of aligning multiple images to ensure accurate representation in 3D space.
- Relative Orientation
Adjusting images in relation to their captured positions to form a cohesive model.
- Analytical Stereoplotter
A device that uses mathematical modeling to produce high-accuracy photogrammetric data from stereo images.
- Softcopy Stereoplotter
A digital method of stereo plotting where images are viewed on a computer rather than through physical diapositives.
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