Apple's 3D Object Scan for iPhone, and how it effect's 3D Modelling
Apples new object capture API, announced as part of their latest yearly update to iOS & MacOS, shows a glimpse into the kinds of technologies which could play a big part in 3D modelling in the future. Apple demonstrated how the new tools available for can be used to allow developers create apps where users can take photographs of a 3D object (minimum 30 recommended) and upload them to a Mac to create 3D models of the object which can be used for creating AR content.
Image source 9to5 Mac linked here
While the focus is currently on creating models for AR content and apps, the potential for this technology with what we do here at Form Lab is what really excites us.
One example of how we could leverage this kind of technology is with reverse engineering and digital capture. This is something we have some experience in, when we helped Burghley House create 3D scan data for a vase which they wanted to preserve, then to export the 3D data gathered into a 3D printed model. While we are still probably a few years away from having cameras and scanners built into our phones with the accuracy to faithfully recreate such detailed models, the fact we are getting closer to a further where the device in your pocket can be used to captured accurate 3D models of any real life object and instantly create 3d models of said object is hugely exciting.
The other area where object capture could greatly enhance what we do here at Form Lab is creating realistic visuals with rendering. A current challenge we face when setting up renderings to look as realistic as possible is in gathering enough 3D CAD ‘prop’ files to make the images look more realistic. Whilst there are a great number of online resources out there for sourcing 3D CAD files such as grabcad, the ability to be able to quickly create 3D files from any object in your room should provide a huge boost to developing realistic looking renders. For example in the below renders from Project Cubit, the render of a desk with a white background is great for showing the product, but the renders of the desk in a room with other real life objects such as a clock and planter really help to bring the concept to life, and picture how it will work in the real world.
Product Render From Project Cubit
Product Render From Project Cubit
Overall, at Form Lab we are extremely excited with the potential that Apple’s new object capture could bring to our industry, and can’t wait to try it out for ourselves, and see how the technology progresses!
