Scanning and interaction for Extended Reality and virtual environments

Purpose

We offer different solutions that suit your specific needs, from geometrically correct scans with advanced equipment for complex needs to simpler solutions based on technology such as iPad with Lidar technology and software that makes it possible to transform data into digital models. We help you avoid the most common pitfalls and create virtual environments and XR experiences that are not only impressive, and that people want to return to, but also practical and compatible with many different VR/AR glasses, displays and devices.

Method

The first step is to scan the objects or environments you want to use for your solution. It can be an object, such as a tool, machine or vehicle, or an indoor/outdoor environment. The scan is processed and imported into a game engine where we help you create interactive solutions. We will jointly determine what suits you and your needs upon contact. The packages below can be seen as a start for such a discussion.

Scanning

• Complete digitization: A comprehensive and advanced scanning service where we scan objects or environments on site. This suits those who require great precision. As experts in dimension and position metrology, we ensure that your data is geometrically correct and georeferenced (positioned correctly).
• Limited digitization: A simpler scanning service for those with less complex needs. Here we spend less time on accuracy in geometry and position. The result is scanned data of sufficient quality that can easily be used for applications such as visualizations or in gaming environments.

Construction

We build interactions and solutions in the Unreal Engine game engine. We use the scanned 3D data or ready-made environments or object models that you already have. If the requirements are very simple, we can also use scans you have made yourself with, for example, an iPad with Lidar. We can also create 3D objects manually based on descriptions or drawings. As an independent research institute, we are also happy to share our knowledge. We always use open-source tools, which means you will not be locked into a specific tool or system.

• Direct import into Unreal Engine: With our pipeline, we can easily import scanned data and create 3D objects and scenes that are directly compatible with Unreal Engine.
• Conversion: We use scanned data as a basis to manually create 3D models for game engines and XR. These 3D models can be used freely to create interactions that are otherwise not possible with directly imported scan data that is imported "as one model". We can also convert CAD data into separate interactive components for use in Unreal Engine.
• Manual 3D modeling: We can also create 3D objects based on descriptions, drawings, or CAD data instead of scanned material. We use the same tools used in the gaming industry to create effective 3D objects adapted for XR.
• Interaction: We feed 3D objects and environments into the Unreal Engine along with a VR-compatible interaction library for movement, measurement, and visualization. The 3D objects and the interaction library form the basis for continued development of solutions such as VR training or virtual environments.
• Further development: We continue building the virtual environment, product or digital twin based on your needs.

Workshop

We are always exploring and developing the possibilities of 3D technology, scanning and game engines. In our research, we constantly discover new problems and opportunities. We want to have a conversation with more people who are interested in development in the field and therefore offer work hops to co-create, explore, and help each other take full advantage of the digital environments in a new way. Since we are an independent research institute that wants to inspire the creation of digital environments that benefit industry and society, we have no secrets and are happy to share our experiences and knowledge.

Deliveries

We will jointly arrive at what the delivery should look like in dialogue with you as the customer. The suggestions above can be seen as examples. If you are curious but have not yet had time to explore the possibilities and limitations, we offer a demonstration. If several actors are interested, we create a joint symposium with our demonstrations.

Most often, we deliver a VR solution as an .exe file that runs with VR connected to a computer. If there is a need, we are happy to process scanned material (as described in the examples above) so that it is possible to launch the experience on, for example, an Oculus Quest 2 or 3. By packaging APK files and OBB files, we can then also guide you through the procedure to get the VR application published on platforms like App Labs where you can share it with your customers through an invite link.