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From: hjg@gor.UUCP (harry gross)
Newsgroups: comp.graphics
Subject: Help in getting started
Message-ID: <5.UUL1.2#241@gor.UUCP>
Date: Sun, 15-Nov-87 11:09:32 EST
Article-I.D.: gor.5.UUL1.2#241
Posted: Sun Nov 15 11:09:32 1987
Date-Received: Tue, 17-Nov-87 03:52:33 EST
Organization: Jim Blake Consulting Co.
Lines: 28

Hi netters.

	Recently, I was asked to look into the problems inherent in
capturing 3D images.  The goal is to be able to scan an object (or a
photo showing front and back, if that turns out to be easier) and
produce a mathematical description of it.  Ideally, the description
should take the form of ordered triples of points, or equations
describing each surface.

	I have not had any dealings with the field of computer graphics
since a course in college (circa '73), so I don't know what has been
done in this area.  Am I looking for something that has been solved?  Or
is this a thorny problem?  What about image capture techniques?  Any
help or pointers would be appreciated.  Also, if there is existing
software to do all (or part) of the job, we would appreciate hearing
about it (with a possible view to purchase, depending on how much, and
how well it fits our needs).

	Since I haven't dealt in the area of graphics, I am woefully
uninformed as to what is being done, with what equipment, etc. 
Therefore, in addition to the above info, I would appreciate pointers to
GOOD material that I can study to bring myself 'up to speed' on the
subject.  After all, I HATE to sound like an idiot when I am discussing
something I am supposed :-) to know about!

	Please respond via e-mail.  Thanks for your help.
		Harry Gross
		{phri,bc-cis,helm}!gor!hjg