How to Create a Real-Life 3D Model Using Drone Images
With the rise of smart construction sites, drones have become increasingly common on construction sites, offering significant advantages for inspections and data collection. But beyond serving as visual references, drone photos and videos can be used for much more. Let’s explore how to transform drone-captured images into a detailed 3D real-life model.
To begin, ensure that the drone photos adhere to key principles: capture the scene from multiple angles, varied orientations, and with ample coverage to fully represent the area to be modeled. Once you have prepared the photos, you can use Bentley Systems’ Smart3D software to create the 3D model.
1. Start by launching the Smart3D main application and selecting New Project, as shown in the illustration.
2. Enter the project details and import the drone images under the Impact tab within the new block, as depicted in the figure.
3. After importing, navigate to the Summary tab and click Submit Aerial Triangulation Survey. At this point, open the engine software and wait for the calculations to finish, as demonstrated below.
4. Once the aerial triangulation is complete, you can generate the 3D real-life model. Click New Reconstruction Project, as illustrated.
Set the model boundaries and decide whether to divide the model into blocks, as shown.
5. In the Summary tab, click Submit New Generated Project, as seen in the figure.
6. Choose the output format; OBJ is commonly used. To view the model within Smart3D’s built-in viewer, configure the first two modes as displayed.
7. Allow the software to complete the processing (make sure the engine software remains open during this time). Once finished, you can view your 3D real-life model, as shown in the final image.
Must log in before commenting!
Sign Up