(Newswire.net — June 20, 2023) — Have you ever wondered how augmented and virtual reality work? The technology behind these two mesmerizing is mind-blowing. In creating virtual environments, designers use reality capture (the science of remote sensing/RC) to scan and map the actual world. Highly detailed 3D models of buildings, objects, and cities are constructed from millions of data points.
The 3D assets are then imported into augmented and virtual reality software, like Openspace AI – where they are optimized, textured, and prepared for a fascinating experience. The result is a digital world so realistic you feel like you’ve been transported. Augmented and virtual reality are the perfect mediums for bridging the gap between the digital and physical worlds.
Scanning and Photogrammetry
RC, simply put, is a process of scanning physical objects in order to create digital 3D models. There are a few techniques employed. However, photogrammetry stands out because of its increasing popularity. It uses 2D images to create 3D models.
Photogrammetry software analyzes features in multiple images and calculates their actual dimensions. The more images and photos from varying angles, the more accurate the 3D models.
LiDAR (laser scanning) uses light to measure the distance between the object and the scanner. As the laser scans through the object, millions of data points are captured. These data points are used in creating a detailed 3D model.
Whether scanning or photogrammetry, the output is a 3D model that can be used in several ways.
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Digital Preservation
In today’s era of technological revolution, museums use 3D scanning to create digital records of spaces and artifacts. The beauty is that these digital artifacts can be interacted with without the risk of damage.
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BIM Modeling
In construction and architecture, 3D scans provide offer real-world context for building. BIM can be overlaid onto scans to look for any discrepancies between the physical building and design.
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Virtual and Augmented Reality Experience
3D models can be imported into AR and VR platforms to create fascinating experiences.
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Reverse Engineering
3D scans of objects can be used to understand the original design or create highly accurate digital models and manufacturing processes.
RC is undoubtedly bridging the gap between the virtual and physical worlds. As technologies such as 3D, AR, and VR become more advanced, 3D will surely play a vital role in how we interact with, design, and understand the built surrounding.
Augmented Reality: Blending Virtual and Physical
AR unifies information and virtual objects with the actual world. This merging of virtual and real (physical) worlds opens up exciting possibilities.
Efficient Work
AR overlays can show how parts fit together. This helps in reducing errors, thus, improves productivity.
Enhanced Learning
Students can explore objects from all angles, even manipulate and take them apart. In the case of a museum, students can get more details about artifacts.
Safer Driving
AR windshield displays offer turn-by-turn directions, warn about any potential hazard, and provide information to help navigate in situations of poor visibility.
Fascinating Experience
It’s no surprise that AR is transforming entertainment and tourism. Tourists can access historical data.
Applications of RC and Augmented Reality
Needless to say, AR is becoming an integral part of human lives. It affects how we learn, work, live, and interact with the world around us.
Preserving the Past
RC uses photogrammetry, 3D scan, plus other technologies in creating 3D models of virtual environments and objects. These virtual representations can then be used in 3D printing and virtual or augmented reality applications. Some of the applications are:
- The information obtained from RC can be used in creating 3D models for use in AR or VR experiences.
- Photogrammetry and 3D scanning are majorly used in creating replicas of landmarks, artifacts, and even entire archeological sites. This plays an important role in learning, preservation, and tourism.
Enhancing Real Worlds
AR overlays digital data on the actual world. This enhances the way you perceive the physical environment around you. Among various ways, AR enhances the real world include:
- Retailers can use AR to help you see how paint colors, accessories, or furniture might look in your apartment before you purchase them.
- AR apps can as well provide information about landmarks.
- Lastly, AR has several applications for gaming, learning, and entertainment.
The Bottom Line
The future is surely enticing. RC and Augmented reality have the potential to transform the way we learn, work, socialize, play, and shop. The physical and virtual worlds are bridging the gap, and there’s no telling of what might occur from this space in between.