hjg@gor.UUCP (harry gross) (11/15/87)
Hi netters. Recently, I was asked to look into the problems inherent in capturing 3D images. The goal is to be able to scan an object (or a photo showing front and back, if that turns out to be easier) and produce a mathematical description of it. Ideally, the description should take the form of ordered triples of points, or equations describing each surface. I have not had any dealings with the field of computer graphics since a course in college (circa '73), so I don't know what has been done in this area. Am I looking for something that has been solved? Or is this a thorny problem? What about image capture techniques? Any help or pointers would be appreciated. Also, if there is existing software to do all (or part) of the job, we would appreciate hearing about it (with a possible view to purchase, depending on how much, and how well it fits our needs). Since I haven't dealt in the area of graphics, I am woefully uninformed as to what is being done, with what equipment, etc. Therefore, in addition to the above info, I would appreciate pointers to GOOD material that I can study to bring myself 'up to speed' on the subject. After all, I HATE to sound like an idiot when I am discussing something I am supposed :-) to know about! Please respond via e-mail. Thanks for your help. Harry Gross {phri,bc-cis,helm}!gor!hjg