A projection method called “projection mapping” is used to transform objects, frequently with irregular shapes, into display surfaces for video projection. It is similar to video mapping and spatial augmented reality.
The items could be elaborate industrial environments, structures, tiny indoor items, or theatrical stages. A two- or three-dimensional object is spatially mapped on the virtual environment that simulates the actual environment it is to be projected on using specialized software.
The projector can then be used in conjunction with the software to project any desired picture onto the surface of the object. Using this method, advertisers and artists can give previously static items the appearance of movement and additional dimensions.
An audio-visual narrative is typically created by combining video with or being triggered by audio. In recent years, the technique has also been widely used in the context of cultural heritage, as it has proven to be an excellent edutainment tool.
What is 3D Mapping Technology?
Another marvel of modern technology, 3D mapping is a new machine vision technology in the field of cartography. While we are already acquainted with 2D maps and 3D vision, it is not difficult to imagine what a 3D map would look like.
Don’t let the curvature of the Earth obscure your view; instead, use 3D mapping to zoom in close to your location. 3D mapping is the process of profiling objects in three dimensions in order to map them in the real world.
There are several methods for 3D profiling an area or object, such as using a stereo camera pair. Another method is to calculate the depth of an object or feature from the point of focus.
You can also create a 3D effect by using plenoptic methods to detect the light field or active 3D imaging techniques. Utilizing machine learning algorithms, 3D mapping technology creates a three-dimensional view of an object that can be mapped onto the physical world.
As the name implies, it maps objects in the x, y, and z axes and is a three-dimensional representation of those objects.
Typically, 3D mapping depicts elevation and location, which is useful for creating scale models of the Earth or architectural features. The number of applications and use cases for geodata has increased thanks to this additional layer, or more accurately, dimension.
Advantage of 3D mapping over 2D technology
One of the most significant advantages of 3D mapping is that it provides the most advanced technical methods for visualisation and information gathering. When a 3D map of the object or area under study is available, knowledge visualisation and science mapping become easier.
A 3D map provides a realistic view of a location that local governments and planners can use. A 3D map is just as useful as a blueprint in the construction industry. It is very simple to visualise floor plans on a 3D map and identify potential construction obstacles.
When you have a 3D map in front of you, you enter a world of limitless imagination in which you can virtually experiment with many visual effects before the final output. From determining aircraft position to making your event unique with projection mapping, 3D mapping is acting as a magical eye.
Types of 3D Mapping
1. 3D projection mapping
Instead of using a traditional screen, 3D projection mapping enables designers to project images onto real-world environments and objects. The method, also known as “video mapping,” produces a striking visual outcome.
The visual experience is produced by 3D projection mapping, which combines four elements to do so (content, projection hardware, surface, and mapping).
The mapping is ‘projected’ onto actual physical spaces or objects rather than traditional screens. The phrase “3D projection mapping” was born. Video mapping is another name for this type of mapping.
Data/content, projection software, and the actual projection object are the three main elements of projection mapping.
2. 3D GIS Mapping
Data layers are entered into GIS software to create a map, which gives users access to information that raw data can’t display on its own. Geographical information is best displayed using GIS mapping, which converts data into visual maps.
Making 3D scenes of a location using 3D mapping and cartography is a crucial step in the creation of studies on high rise development, the interior and exterior of buildings, and the effects of natural disasters.
Using ArcGIS, you can make a 3D map in just a few easy steps. The “ArcGIS scene viewer” feature is offered by ArcGIS. ArcGIS Pro is a desktop application that is produced by ArcGIS. It has numerous comprehensive 3D inbuilt capabilities due to the fact that it is a 64-bit application.
It provides the option to work simultaneously and side-by-side with 2D and 3D scenes. The precise information provided by 3D mapping, such as the location of a fire, aids in quick disaster response.
3. Drone Mapping
Using specialized software, multiple aerial images are digitally stitched together to produce a larger and more accurate composite image in the process of drone mapping.
Photogrammetry, the process of using drones to map terrain, is used in a variety of industries, including topographic mapping, architecture, engineering, manufacturing, and quality control.
How Projection Mapping works?
- Choose a canvas: The selection of your location and surface is the first step in projection mapping. Any surface that enables your projection to come to life can serve as the surface. People frequently choose backdrops, buildings, and stages as their canvases.
- Make a lighting plan: After choosing your canvas, you must use projection mapping software to determine the brightness level, pixel density, and shadow detail as well as to generate the projection metrics.
- Create content: Next, create a concrete representation of the visual story you want to tell by designing and animating the projection template.
- Set it up onsite: It’s time to physically set up the project once you’ve finished developing it. To make sure your projection will be clear and seamless, go to the venue of your event and use an alignment grid.
- the presentation’s completion: Adjust your content and projection based on the alignment grid, then test the projection to see if any additional adjustments need to be made before the show.
It is common to use projection mapping in conjunction with other audiovisual effects. For instance, in Dubai, it is frequently combined with laser shows or waterfall displays and usually synchronized with music to illuminate famous structures like hotels.
It can support an art installation, add theater to a ballroom event, or bring museum pieces to life when used indoors. A machine-intelligent sand table was transformed into an interactive satellite-view landscape at the V&A Museum in London.
Algorithmic software changed the projection in real time in response to audience movement of sand; for example, piling up sand caused a snowy mountain peak to appear, while digging a hole caused the hole to instantly “fill” with water.