Most of us are already familiar with the concept of a 3D render, also called 3D visualization, 3D image, or artist impression. However, few people are known, let alone familiar with all other applications of 3D modeling outside of creating static ‘images’.
At the base of any 3D application lies of course a 3D model. We will use advanced software such as 3D Studio Max (Autodesk, 3Ds Max) to draw a very detailed 3D model of your project. In contrast to simpler programs such as Sketchup, we use professional 3D software where we put all the small details into the model so it can ultimately be rendered perfectly realistic.
One of the applications besides static images that result from such a 3D model and that most people are already familiar with, is 3D animation. For example, emotions and more complex concepts can be conveyed better in a movie than with static images alone. Read more about how you can create 3D animations for your company here.
An even more interactive way of these 3D animation videos are 360 degree videos. As a viewer, you have the opportunity to look around and get a 360 degree image. You can then look left, right, above and below and you can create a feeling that you are in the middle of it.
Another concept is 3D walkthrough tours also called virtual tours, 360° tours or VR tours. These are multiple 360-degree images that are linked to each other with a navigation menu so that you can walk/jump and look around the room. A nice application of 3D technology that is not yet used by most companies, a certain way to distinguish yourself!
To breath new life into your 3D visualizations, you can also use an animated still. There are some elements in an image that can move, which arouses more interest in your 3D render. For example, you can only make the water move slightly, let a few birds fly by, a fire crackling, … We have noticed with customers that this works very well on social media!
Furthermore, we also have the term ‘XR’, which is the collective name for VR, AR and MR. Terms such as VR, AR and MR may already sound familiar to you, but what is the difference between them?
With Virtual Reality or VR, a virtual world is created in which the images you see appear are very lifelike, it is a completely new reality. You are completely cut off from the real world, so that you can perfectly empathize in this virtual environment. With virtual reality you do need extra hardware: you can’t just do this through your screen. You can use such VR applications by means of VR glasses and/or a VR headset.
Augmented Reality or AR is an interactive experience in which the virtual world and reality are combined. By means of, for example, a smartphone or tablet, you can add 3D objects in a realistic way into your reality. You can then look at the placed object, physically walk around it and zoom in to view every detail.
With AR, a virtual layer is added to what you see in the physical world. An important difference with VR is that something can be seen here on a screen where you just continue to see reality, not through special glasses that completely immerse you in a virtual world. A well-known example of this is the IKEA place application, where you can place IKEA furniture in your living room and decide more quickly whether it fits nicely into your interior. Read more about how AR can be used for your company here.
Mixed Reality or MR is a variant in which elements of VR and AR are combined. The real world is expanded with lifelike objects in which interaction is also possible. This variant is slightly less known to the main public, but will entail numerous applications that we do not immediately think about today.
The difference with normal AR is that a smartphone is not enough for a convincing MR experience, but that special hardware is required for this. The three big players at the moment are HoloLens, the Meta 2 and the Magic Leap.
An example of the latter is, for example, going shopping where you can move through the store with MR glasses. The groceries on your list light up when you walk by and in this way you avoid the (sometimes long) search for the correct product. Even interesting offers that have been selected for you are given a striking color. Virtual arrows will show you the way through the store, so you can immediately see the most efficient route to move around.
As a company, we are strongly committed to growing with these technologies and are happy to think along with you on how we can visualize your ideas as best as possible.
Do you want to discover what 3d visualization can mean for your company? Then contact us! At P1 Studio we are specialized in 3D visualization and 3D animation and are happy to bring your ideas to life.
