We present a new video browsing method for multiple videos that are taken at large-scale space for live 3D events such as soccer games. By our method, multiple viewers over a computer network can browse a live 3D event from any viewpoint and each viewer can move his/her viewpoint freely. Our algorithm consists of five steps. Our system first captures videos from multiple cameras, then extracts texture segments from the videos, selects appropriate segments according to a viewpoint which is given by user dynamically, transmits them to users, and lays out the segments in virtual space so that each viewer can see the segments in a virtual environment as if the viewers were in the event. Our 3D video display system requires 10 Mbps at most to browse a soccer game. We conducted experiments at two real soccer stadiums and succeeded in realizing live realistic visualization with free viewpoint at about 26 fps.

This paper proposes a method to realize a 3D video display system that can capture video from multiple cameras, reconstruct 3D models and transmit 3D video data in real time. We represent a target object with a simplified 3D model consisting of a single plane and a 2D texture extracted from multiple cameras. This 3D model is simple enough to be transmitted via a network. We have developed a prototype system that can capture multiple videos, reconstruct 3D models, transmit the models via a network, and display 3D video in real time. A 3D video of a typical soccer scene that includes a dozen players was processed at 26 frames per second.

A live 3D video system in a real soccer stadium is presented. Players on the pitch are represented with a simplified 3D model. The model is reconstructed from multiple videos obtained by nine CCD cameras surrounding the pitch. Observers can watch the game from arbitrary viewing position. By using real textures of the players, realistic video presentation is possible. All processes are fully automatic and real time. The system can transmit live 3D video to distant places.