Range-space approach for generalized multiple baseline stereo and direct virtual view synthesis

In this paper a new "range-space" approach, for rendering visual models using a network of multiple omnidirectional vision sensors (ODVS) is presented. This integrated approach allows for simultaneous extraction of 3-D range as well as visual models. The approach requires three distinct steps of analyzing multiple ODVS video input streams: 1) Search, 2) Match, and 3) Render. At the output, a user-specified view is rendered. This three-step process does not require 3D model of the scene to be provided.