Method and apparatus for use in forming an image

摘要

A method for use in forming an image of an object comprises setting a value of an attribute of an image of an object according to a measured reflectance of the object. The image of the object thus formed may be realistic and may closely resemble the actual real-world appearance of the object. Such a method may, in particular, though not exclusively, be useful for providing a realistic image of a road surface and any road markings thereon to assist with navigation. Setting a value of an attribute of the image of the object may comprise generating an initial image of the object and adjusting a value of an attribute of the initial image of the object according to the measured reflectance of the object to form an enhanced image of the object. A method for use in navigation comprises providing a navigation system with data associated with an image formed using such a method. An image formed using such a method and a map database containing such an image are also disclosed.

主权项

1. A method for use in forming an image of an object comprising:
providing an initial image of an object, said object comprising a surface having a variation in appearance across the surface; obtaining, by a processor, data representing a measured reflectance from positions on the surface of the object; associating, by the processor, a pixel, point or portion of the initial image of the object with a corresponding position on the surface of the object from which the reflectance is measured; and setting, by the processor, a value of an attribute of the pixel, point or portion of the initial an image of the object according to the measured reflectance of the corresponding position on the surface of the object to form an enhanced image of the object.