A New Image-based Modelling System to Support Architectural Redesign Activities

In the architectural field there is no effective process for the rapid generation of computer models from existing buildings. Commonly, engineers use contact probe or laserscanning systems to perform such work, but these machines are not adequate for large objects as buildings. This study aims to solve this limitation through the replication of the human vision process into a computer programme, using an image-based modelling approach. The importance of this new tool for architectural redesign and reverse design activities are highlighted here. This approach uses two-dimensional photos to generate three-dimensional computer models that can be used to produce sophisticated photo-realistic renderings or to generate surface models for simulation purposes and rapid prototyping applications. The proposed image-based modeling system, which is in a very early stage, intends to be a very robust, versatile and flexible computer tool that will enable to do architectural redesign of buildings from non-existing digital models. The general structure of this computer tool is described in this paper as well an analogy with the human process of visual perception. Additionally, the starting parts of the computer code is briefly introduced from a mathematical perspective.