Generate vectorized 3D models from UltraCam imagery

Blog , Product Features

23 March 2023

Vectorized 3D models from UltraCam imagery

Leverage Vexcel‘s state-of-the-art UltraCam large-format aerial camera systems and UltraMap photogrammetric processing software, in conjunction with sophisticated RhinoTerrain and DAT/EM software solutions to create true 3D building models up to level of detail (LOD) 3 for informed decision making. Excellent integrations between interfaces and intuitive data interactions support a smooth end-to-end workflow. The final watertight city models adhere to CityGML standards, ensuring optimal use in subsequent applications such as urban planning and design, Building Information Modeling (BIM), and virtual reality applications.

Workflow for creating true 3D building models

UltraCam data collection (nadir only or nadir & oblique aerial imagery)

OUTPUT
UltraCam raw imagery

Automatically color balances all nadir and oblique imagery and converts raw UltraCam imagery into standard file formats

INPUT
Raw UltraCam imagery & camera calibration

OUTPUT
Radiometrically aligned images in PAN, RGBI, RGB & CIR (TIFF – 8/16 Bit, JPEG, GeoTIFF, WorldFile)

Generates precise exterior orientations for an entire image block by means of least-square bundle adjustment

INPUT
Post-processed imagery (optional: processed GPS-data and/or GCPs)

OUTPUT
Exterior orientations (CSV, Bingo, PAT-B)

Supports digitization of roofs in 3D stereo environment using Summit Evolution in tandem with RhinoCapture

INPUT
Exterior orientations & TIFFs (from UltraMap)

OUTPUT
Vectors describing roofscape and other building elements (Shape file)

Automatically produces exact 3D models by combining geometry (3D polygons) and semantic information

INPUT
Vectors with roofscape and other building elements (Shape file), eventually auxiliary data (e.g. DTM)

OUTPUT
Building models in well-defined data structure with valid geometry and topology

Automatic texturing with nadir or oblique UltraCam imagery. If facades are occluded by objects, users can choose an image from a different angle to replace them.

INPUT
Exterior orientations & TIFFs (from UltraMap)

OUTPUT
CityGML, CityJSON, 3DTiles, glTF, PostGIS, 3DCityDB

Download the info sheet for this complementary 3D workflow to gain insights into every step involved in creating true 3D models.

Download Workflow Overview

Correlation between model complexity and production time

The level of detail and complexity of 3D models are primarily determined by their intended application. For instance, certain city models or buildings require a high degree of precision, while simpler representations may suffice for others. As the complexity of the model varies, so does the amount of work involved in creating it. To provide context, we've included examples of 3D building models at varying levels of complexity, along with the average time needed to generate each one.

Four roof polygons
Production time: 2 minutes

48 roof polygons
Production time: 30 minutes

2756 roof polygons
Production time: 20 hours

Correlation between model complexity and production time

Four roof polygons
Production time: 2 minutes

48 roof polygons
Production time: 30 minutes

2756 roof polygons
Production time: 20 hours

Are you curious about the creation process of this 3D model for Old Town Graz? The watertight textured LOD 2 city model was generated by Eurosense. Read the case study to learn more.

Case study