Real-Time 3D Reconstruction System for Models of Tangible Building Blocks Based on Distributed Sensing

Building blocks is a kind of highly easy-to-use design toolkit,by which a wide variety of tangible models(buildings,machines,figures,etc.)can be created through simple and robust interlock structures.In traditional,the models built by tangible bricks can be reconstructed via computer vision method,but many problems still have not been solved properly,e.g.,low recognition rate,complicated user manipulation,and occlusion between bricks.This paper proposes a real-time 3 D reconstruction system utilizing distributed sensing technology.The system architecture is divided into four layers:hardware,network,interaction and application.Through the sensor data processing,structure reconstruction and 3 D display module,tangible models built by tangible bricks can be digitalized,reconstructed and displayed in real time.This system is based on topological detection between connected units,such that problems like occlusion and recognition can be solved in essence.Through the development of prototype and pilot user study,we explore the application prospect of modular tangible user interface in various fields,e.g.,computer aided design,education and entertainment.The system can be applied in various areas,e.g.,education,entertainment and design.