The three-dimensional imaging of rock wall surface with the use of computer-based image processing and analysis

The paper presents two methods of digital mapping of rock walls in three dimensional space. The methods have been developed with the use of low-cost devices, which enable image acquisition, and processing methods based on digital image processing and analysis. Both methods are based on so-called shadow profilometry. One of those methods involved mapping the shape of the rock wall on casted mapped surface with analyzed laser lines. The second method was based on the analysis of projected set of bit planes. The planes were projected by computer projector. Both measurement methods have been tested in Miękinia porphyry quarry. The study involved rock wall measurements, which were repeated several times. The part of rock material was removed from the measured wall after each measurement. In order to verify the accuracy of the proposed methods of measurement, volume results obtained and based on digital methods were compared to the volume of removed rock material during measurement. Calculated results were characterized by small deviations which prove to be correct, and are a solid basis for further work on practical application of presented methods.