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Advances in 3D Computer Graphic Reconstruction

by MIRALAB
Exploring the Cutting Edge -Advances in 3D Computer Graphic Reconstruction for Cultural Heritage Preservation

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Preserving and documenting
historical artifacts, monuments, and sites is crucial for maintaining our global cultural legacy.
However, the challenges posed by incomplete or fragmented information have encouraged the development of sophisticated methods for reconstructing accurate 3D models. Let’s have a look at the state of the art in these methodologies, highlighting key techniques and innovations.
1. 3D Reconstruction from A Single Image
Figure 1.Overview of the method

This technique transforms the 2D image into a three-dimensional representation. The method employs Cross-Domain Diffusion, a process where information is shared and diffused between different domains, enhancing the depth perception of the image.
By taking advantage of this technique, the system can deduce the three-dimensional structure of objects in the image, even if the original input was in a two-dimensional format.
This innovative approach opens the way for creating immersive 3D experiences from simple images, simplifying the transition from 2D to 3D in computer graphics.

Reference: Long, Xiaoxiao, et al. “Wonder3d: Single image to 3d using cross-domain diffusion.” arXiv preprint arXiv:2310.15008 (2023).

2. 3D Reconstruction from multi-view images to Point Cloud: CG-MVSNet

A sophisticated method in computer vision which involves taking multiple images of an object or scene from different viewpoints and then employing GC-MVSNet, a specialized algorithm, to reconstruct a detailed and accurate three-dimensional point cloud representation. GC-MVSNet algorithm excels at handling complex scenes, utilizing global context information to refine the reconstruction and improve the overall quality of the generated point cloud.

Figure 2. Overall Architecture

By combining information from multiple views, this approach enhances the depth perception and spatial accuracy, making it a powerful tool for creating realistic 3D models from a set of 2D images.

Reference: Vats, Vibhas K., et al. “GC-MVSNet: Multi-View, Multi-Scale, Geometrically-Consistent Multi-View Stereo.” Proceedings of the IEEE/CVF Winter Conference on Applications of Computer Vision. 2024.

3. 3D Reconstruction from multi-view images to 3D mesh: RayAug
Figure 4. Some results

This process involves capturing images of an object or scene from different angles and employing RayAug, a specialized algorithm, to convert the information into a detailed and textured 3D mesh.
RayAug optimizes the reconstruction by considering lighting and shading effects, resulting in a more realistic and visually appealing 3D representation. This method is particularly effective in creating accurate and intricate 3D models by leveraging the information gathered from multiple views, offering a powerful tool for generating lifelike 3D meshes from a set of 2D images.

Reference: Yao, Jiawei, et al. “Geometry-guided ray augmentation for neural surface reconstruction with sparse views.” arXiv preprint arXiv:2310.05483 (2023).

4. 3D Reconstruction from Damaged Object: MendNet, Pix2Repair

MENDNET

When dealing with objects that have missing or damaged parts, MendNet utilizes advanced algorithms to reconstruct a complete and accurate 3D model. This process involves analyzing the available information from various viewpoints and intelligently filling in the gaps or repairing damaged areas in the object’s structure.

Figure 5. MendNet: From fractured 3D points

Reference: Lamb, Nikolas, Sean Banerjee, and Natasha K. Banerjee. “Mendnet: Restoration of fractured shapes using learned occupancy functions.” Computer Graphics Forum. Vol. 41. No. 5. 2022.

Pix2Repair

An advanced approach in computer graphics which facilitates 3D Reconstruction of objects that have missing or impaired sections. This method involves analyzing available visual data from different angles and intelligently filling in the missing or damaged parts of the object. Pix2Repair’s ability to restore the geometry of damaged objects makes it a valuable tool in the field of CH.

Figure 6. Pix2Repair: From a single image (Left: Input Images, Middle: Restorations, Right: Ground Truths)
5. Open Datasets:

Tools and platforms that enable interactive and collaborative reconstruction efforts are emerging. Crowdsourced data, combined with expert contributions, transforms the reconstruction process into a joint effort. The following section presents some of the most advanced Open dataset of 3D scans of real world broken objects in cultural heritage.

Platform / SHREC 2021

SHREC 2021 provides a platform for researchers to showcase their advancements in the field of 3D shape retrieval. Participants utilize innovative methods to efficiently retrieve and match 3D models of cultural heritage objects, such as sculptures, artifacts, and monuments. The goal is to enhance the accuracy and effectiveness of retrieving relevant cultural heritage items from vast 3D shape databases.

Figure 7. 3D scanned cultural heritage objects

 Reference: Sipiran, Ivan, et al. “SHREC 2021: Retrieval of cultural heritage objects.” Computers & Graphics 100 (2021): 1-20

Dataset and methods / Pix3d

Pix3D is a dataset and methodology designed for modeling 3D shapes from a single image. The dataset includes images representing objects in various interior scenes, together with the corresponding 3D models. Researchers and developers use Pix3D to train and test algorithms capable of generating 3D shapes from a single 2D image. The methods employed involve teaching machines to understand the spatial structure of objects in photographs and translating this knowledge into precise three-dimensional representations.

Figure 8. 2D images – 3D shapes

 

Dataset / Fantastic Breaks

Fantastic Breaks is a unique dataset that consists of paired 3D scans of real-world broken objects along with their complete, undamaged counterparts. This dataset is invaluable in the field of computer vision and 3D reconstruction as it provides a diverse collection of objects that have undergone various types of damage.
Each pair of scans allows researchers and developers to study and train algorithms on reconstructing the original, intact state of objects from their broken versions. This dataset is particularly useful for advancing techniques related to object restoration, damage analysis, and understanding how 3D reconstruction algorithms perform in challenging scenarios involving damaged objects.

Reference: Sun, Xingyuan, et al. “Pix3d: Dataset and methods for single-image 3d shape modeling.” Proceedings of the IEEE conference on computer vision and pattern recognition. 2018.

Conclusion
The state of the art reflects a dynamic landscape of innovation. From advanced algorithms to the integration of cutting-edge technologies such as deep learning, computer vision and sensor fusion, researchers continue to push the boundaries of what is achievable to reconstruct lost cultural heritage, preserve and understand our rich cultural legacy.

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