Gabor BODO
(Mensor3D Ltd, Budapest, Hungary)
Keywords: laser scanning, virtual reality, heritage preservation
Abstract:
The technological advances in spatial data collection and 3D imaging developments are changing our perception of the real world. Surveying, data processing, modeling are key elements of these development processes to achieve the output products, Virtual – and Augmented Reality. Cutting edge multimedia software and displaying devices can offer the viewer an experience ever closer to the reality. The main concept of the application is to explore both the technological side and the implementation capabilities of this state of art technology.
The primary objective of this application is to digitally preserve Solomon tower’s (Visegrad, Hungary) historical site and its artifacts in 3D with high fidelity and precision, and to provide a 3D multimedia experience for research and educational purposes. Aerial photogrammetry, terrestrial laser scanning and structured light scanning devices have been used successfully to capture real-world sites and objects. These methods provide reliable results, but considered expensive. The output of current scanners are not yet ready for direct analysis or real time interaction on generic platforms. Usually some minor data continuity issues have to be addressed, basic editing is necessary. There are robust tools to correct these deficiencies. Specialized, independent virtual working environments provide solutions from the initial steps (processing raw captures) to delivering the final results, AR – augmented reality or VR – virtual reality.
With the help of this proposed application it is intended to introduce current display and motion capture technologies and explore how to apply these devices and multimedia products in open or confined spaces. To fully experience the surroundings in 3D and in right scale, special hardware has to be utilized. There are many ready to use and in development technologies to display virtual content. The HMD (Head Mounted Display) technology can seamlessly involve visitors in fully virtual scenarios, or augment real world sites with digital content.
