Sending Three-Dimensional Images over a Network

摘要

A benefit is obtained for sending digital information over a network. The digital information is representative of three-dimensional images which include photographic images. The receiving computer renders the images from the received digital information, and a viewer at the receiving computer can interactively choose a viewpoint or perspective to view the images on a display of the receiving computer. The benefit to the sender can be monetary compensation and/or increased recognition of the sender, for example.

主权项

1. A method of streaming over a network a three-dimensional representation of a three-dimensional surface, wherein three-dimensional features of said surface are represented by data which includes elevation information and image data arranged in a hierarchical structure including portions of said surface at a plurality of detail levels comprising:
retrieving locally stored data that includes elevation information corresponding to a portion of said surface at a certain detail level from a local memory; determining whether said three dimensional portion of said surface is at a detail level that satisfies a calculated detail level, and dynamically streaming over a network remotely stored additional three dimensional data that includes elevation information of portions of said surface until the calculated detail level is satisfied.