PhotoModeler Motion Overview

Bring time into your measurement and modeling -> do 4D modeling and measurement!

4D = 3D (xyz) + 1D (time)

Perform measurements, get 3D points, and extract 3D surfaces over time with subjects that change shape or move. Photographs are shot at time intervals – called epochs. Each epoch is like a separate PhotoModeler project, with the added benefits of both automation and a more efficient solution by carrying forward information from one epoch to the next to tie the whole project together over time. Targets (coded and/or non-coded) can be tracked between epochs.

There are two styles of Motion project:

  • Multiple synchronized static cameras (= type 1)
  • Single camera with coded targets and slow moving subjects (= type 2)

A type 1 Motion project would have 2 or more fixed cameras (on tripods or similar). The cameras do not move during photography. Ideally the cameras are also synchronized (taking images at the same time). In a type 1 project the consistent coordinate system across epochs is defined by the static cameras.

A type 2 Motion project would use one or more cameras – and the cameras can move. The coordinate system is defined by a set of coded targets in the scene that do not move or change shape over time. In a type 2 project that uses a single camera (and is moved around to take photographs), the subject is either very slow moving or rests (does not move or change shape) while the photographs for one epoch are taken.

PhotoModeler outputs animations and tables that show the 3D and 2D information of point movement over time.

Below are three examples using Motion. The first uses Dense Surface Modeling over time, the second tracks a shape change using targets and a single camera (type 2), and the third tracks dot targets over time to accurately measure object movement (multiple cameras type 1).

PhotoModeler Motion capability is built into PhotoModeler Scanner and PhotoModeler UAS products.

>> View PhotoModeler Motion Tool in action <<

The PhotoModeler Motion Tool is used in these areas:

  • material deformation measuring and modeling
  • tracking moving targets
  • shape change of industrial parts (high speed or slow and static poses)
  • measuring volume changes over time
  • reverse animation (motion capture)