ARmedia: augmented reality plugin 2.0

ARmedia has just released version 2.0 of their augmented reality plugin


ARmedia, part of inglobe technologies, has released version 2.0 of their augmented reality plugin
for google sketchup and autodesk 3ds max. it updates the original software, which
permits 3D models created with these programs to be visualized in real space
using only a computer and a webcam.



example of augmented reality visualization of a 3ds max model


perhaps the most interesting addition to the new release is the ability to introduce 'occluder objects' into models.
typically in augmented reality applications, when a 3d model is placed 'behind' a physical object in real space,
it appears superimposed onto that object, rather than being visually occluded by it.
with the new plugin, users can create invisible virtual objects that mimic the real world environment.
any parts of the model that are 'behind a real object' in the viewer's line of sight
thus do appear hidden, creating much more physically realistic effects.



example of augmented reality visualization of a sketchup model



the new release permits multiple models to be visualized and combined in real space


another new feature, 'lighting debug mode,' improves the reliability of 3d visualization
by adjusting the tracking of the 3d object in response to real-world lighting conditions.

the new version also supports antialiasing to improve the appearance of the model,
provides more accessible export utilities, and allows the creation of multiple and custom fiduciary markers,
providing more user control over the 3D visualization, as well as the ability to combine multiple 3D objects in real space.



video showcasing the new plugin, used with sketchup



video showcasing the new plugin, used with 3ds max