Reality capture is a great way for firms to expand their service offerings and win business in new markets. Here are a few examples of how companies are “thinking outside the box” and using reality capture in creative ways:
- “Just in time” drainage studies. Often when people think of reality capture, time consuming survey projects come to mind. Unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and photogrammetry, however, dispel that perception. Recently, one of our clients conducted a six minute UAV flight and collected data on 12 acres of land. With Pix4D software and about an hour of data processing time, the client leveraged that information for a drainage study that will inform design terracing and sediment control measures. Reality capture technologies like these are a great way to offer value-added services that can be delivered quickly.
- Augmented reality for interactive media. An architecture and construction firm is working with a museum to laser scan a retired Navy aircraft carrier and create a digital model. This will be used in the museum’s interactive multimedia guide. Visitors will hold an iPad up to different areas of the aircraft carrier and on the screen, they will see animations of how soldiers would have worked on the ship during wartime. The physical conditions captured in the 3D model will serve as the basis for these animations.
- Three-dimensional printing projects. Reality capture and 3D printing are intersecting in new and interesting ways. For historical preservation initiatives, models can be used to 3D print architectural details like carvings, decorative plaster, and more. Firms are just beginning to scratch the surface when it comes to the potential of reality capture and 3D printing.
We’ve worked with numerous firms as they have integrated reality capture into their service portfolios. Based on our experience, here are three best practices that can help maximize your success:
- Remember that reality capture is more than a scanner. To get the greatest bang for the buck from reality capture, firms must use multiple tools and specific workflows. While the data capture tools such as laser scanners or UAVs are important, the backend software tools like Pix4D or Leica Geosystems are equally important for delivering successful results.
- Data management is an essential, but often overlooked aspect of reality capture projects. The point clouds generated during reality capture projects often contain large volumes of data that can be hard to share with internal and external project team members. Using data management tools like Leica JetStream can make the difference and vastly increase the value of 3D models.
- Working with the right partner can help you get up to speed faster. As you enter the reality capture field, you can accelerate the path to proficiency by working with an experienced partner. IMAGINiT understands the different tools that support reality capture, as well as the workflows and data management techniques that contribute to project success. We regularly train firms in this area and support proof of concept projects that build a foundation of knowledge for teams.
Learn with our whitepaper: How to Avoid Common Pitfalls in Reality Capture.
As you consider how to expand your business with reality capture, think about how to do what you currently do better, as well as what new opportunities may exist. Don’t be afraid to use your imagination and above all, don’t let your perceptions about the technology limit you.