Rough surface estimation using the Kirchhoff model

Abstract

In this paper, we exploit the theory of light scattering from rough surfaces to estimate surface characteristics through reflectance measurements. Here, we analyse the Beckmann formulation of the Kirchhoff theory. We then suggest two classes of surfaces for which the appropriate techniques can be used for estimating the surface roughness, the correlation length and the surface slope. Finally, we show how the Beckmann model can be fitted to reflectance data for materials with very-rough surfaces. Since the Kirchhoff theory is inadequate for large angles of incidence, we make use of a modification to the Beckmann model. The proposed techniques have significant potential in computer vision for texture model acquisition and realistic reflectance modelling. © Springer-Verlag 2003.