Visionary collaborative outdoor reconstruction using SLAM and SfM

Abstract

In this position paper, we argue about a concept for collaborative outdoor reconstruction using SLAM clients and a scalable SfM engine running in the cloud. Based on previous observations and results, we discuss issues like illumination changes, overall scalability or the dacay of buildings, having a serious impact on the practical feasibility of such a system. Revisiting ideas and insights from work on outdoor reconstruction and localization done in the last couple of years, we outline an idea for collaborative and vivid reconstruction of the world, potentially through the cameras of millions of mobile devices.