Interactive 3D solution to introduce sand caves

3D Technologies R&D has created virtual sand caves for the Piusa visitor center.

Piusa caves have emerged as a result of manual mining of glass-sand during 1922-1970 and represent a system of underground galleries with sandstone columns and vaulted ceilings. Since 1970 pit-mining was started. In 1950s hibernating bats were discovered in the caves. Since 1958 when bats became legally protected in Estonia, they have been counted here regularly. In 1981 caves came under protection rules for the Nature Reserve of Piusa Caves. The aim of the Reserve is to protect the biggest colony of bats in Baltic states and to preserve geologically interesting artificial object (caves). The caverns are closed for public due to threat of collapse and only a small secured fraction can be accessed.

A section of the caves are presented as interactive real-time 3D model where visitors can walk around and hover using touch-screen kiosk. Cave walls, sandstone colours and minor details are observable in the computer model. Visitors can read additional information about the caverns and can take virtual tour inside the caves.

For creating the 3D model the caves were laserscanned to get the exact measures as input for 3D modeling. The virtual caves are showcased on large touch-screen kiosks in the visitor center.

The solution helps to present the caverns for the public to understand the structure and nature of the caves. It also helps to illustrate the methods of glass-sand mining during last century. 

Join us at the Kiosk Europe exhibition

Join us at the Europe's largest self service event Kiosk Europe Expo 2010, booth 4F.10.

Kiosk Europe takes place in Essen, Germany from 15-17 June.

We will showcase our 3D Kiosk - a solution for presenting 3D models as real-time interactive content on touch-screens.

In addition to the exhibition Lauri Põldre will present a case-study at the Interactive Museum Workshops 16th of June.

Homepage of the exhibition

An article in Kiosk Europe Magazine summer issue

On-Screen Sculpture

A 3D display is one of the most eyecatching ways to present objects and applications at interactive kiosks. 3D Technologies R&D’s solution was created in response to specific needs – to show content in high-quality three-dimensional form on touch screen computers, giving users an impressive visual experience. More than simply viewing pictures and videos, users can rotate the kiosk’s computer model themselves, and can browse, zoom and rotate 3D objects via the touch screen. Neither joystick, mouse nor keyboard are needed to control the objects. The 3D solution is designed to be independent of hardware. Customers can choose their favourite kiosk models, as long as the minimum requirements are met, such as a good graphics card.

3D content is most effective with touch screens larger than 22” and the best user experience is achieved with 32“ screens. The solution can be customised or integrated with other applications. 3D content for the solution can be generated with laser scanning or modelled using pictures and drawings. It is also possible to import the content from other 3D applications such as CAD. The solution is designed to provide the opportunity to present merchandise and museum collections more effectively and realistically.

For example, 3D Technologies created 3D kiosk models of the works of Estonian sculptor Amandus Adamson for the Amandus Adamson museum, which would not otherwise have had space to exhibit all the sculptor’s works. All 80 sculptures were laserscanned, photographed and then computer-modeled into 3D. The 3D sculptures are shown on 32’’ touch-screens and museum visitors can browse between models, zoom, scroll, rotate and read additional information. Each sculpture has its own 3D, high-quality, full-screen digital model, which allows the visitors to view even minor details. Representations of major works are made as accurate as possible, as they are set in the image of their actual surroundings, so the audience can see the real environment in which the sculpture is located.

The solution is customisable and the design, layout, and additional items can be modified in accordance with the wishes of the museum. Objects for displaying in 3D Museum can be digitised by laser scanning or modelled using pictures and drawings. This solution has helped to improve the visitor experience and has enabled visitors to explore the complete range of the artist’s work. 3D also enables visitors to get a better understanding of each artwork and explore the minor details.

See for yourself at the Interactive Museum at KIOSK EUROPE EXPO 2010.

http://www.kioskeurope.com/ke/issue/435

18.05.2010 3D Technologies R&D at the Space Technologies Business Seminar in London

15.04.2010 3D Technologies R&D to exhibit at the Hannover Messe 19 to 23 April 2010

12.04.2010 3D Technologies R&D to showcase 3D Kiosk at the conference "Transforming Culture in the Digital Age"

08.03.2010 Meet us at the ICT Denmark 10-11 March

01.03.2010 3D Technologies R&D started to showcase 3D Kiosk solution at Estonian Demo Center