Image-Based Modeling of Virtual Pagoda of China

This paper introduces an image-based pagodas modeling and simulation system that takes a single photo as input. To implement the pagoda modeling system, we have built a component model library of pagodas by L system (e.g. square, hexagonal, and octagonal box, eaves bending upwards or downwards etc.) and a corresponding feature library. Feature points have been detected by improved feature detection algorithm. Once the feature points are detected, they are first checked to see whether they match with the predefined feature library. If so, a corresponding model in component model library is assigned to them. XML code is used to control the process of pagoda generation in detail and ratio parameter added to ensure the coherent architecture styles of ancient vernacular pagodas. Because of the advantages (accurate modeling and rapid generating) of this modeling system, it can be applied to the preserving of the digital heritage in China vernacular architecture.