3D Mapping and Modeling: The Technology, Which is Revolutionizing Industries

Three-dimensional mapping or 3D mapping, which is also known as 3D projection mapping or photogrammetry mapping, is a technology that is used to project either a 2D or a 3D object onto a display surface through spatial mapping. For the addition of characteristics to an object, which is otherwise stationary such as structures and buildings, 3D mapping is used. The key concept behind 3D mapping revolves around first creating a projection map of the object that is to be mapped. The 3D models from the base of the object to be projection-mapped. For the creation of 3D models, computer-aided design software can be used.

The important factor that comes into play here is that these objects must be arcuate. To obtain accurate measurements to be used in the process of mapping laser scans are used.  UV imaging, which is the next step in this method converts the object into a surface, which can successfully facilitate the display of visuals on it. The UV map decides the correct position where the 2D video file’s pixels will intersect with the 3D object file. The final step is to load the file into a simulation tool, which can facilitate the projection. Some advanced tools, which decide the luminosity to decide how much light is needed for a perfect projection, are used sometimes.

The process of modeling any surface or any object, which can be both living and non-living in three dimensions through mathematical representation by using specialized software, is referred to as 3D modeling. The product formed after the process is called a 3D model.  For this purpose, software, such as AutoCAD is used. 3D models are able to facilitate the representation of a physical body by utilizing a collection of points in a three-dimensional space.

The geometric entities like triangles, lines among others are formed in a 3D pace by a collection of points in a 3D space. 3D models find uses in applications such as computer-aided design (CAD) and 3D graphics. The 3D model can be viewed from various directions and views in order to understand the complete structure and features of the created object. This aids the designer in analyzing whether the product created comprises the same features as the object viewed by the naked eye and the designer’s understanding, so if any discrepancy in the design is found, it can be rectified.

Current Scenario in 3D Mapping and Modelling Market Landscape:

1)  The importance of 3D mapping and modeling

The 3D mapping and modeling techniques have been in use for a long time as they can facilitate a variety of applications in different industries such as Aerospace and Defense, Healthcare, Media and Entertainment, Construction, Automotive, Manufacturing, and Others. Moreover, the importance of 3D mapping and modeling is increasing as the devices, which can support 3D solutions such as smartphones, tablets, and computers among other devices are increasing. The role of 3D mapping is also increasing in the construction and healthcare sectors respectively owing to the problems it can address, making it easier to understand for professionals to act accordingly.

2)  Different industries to show growth

The use of 3D mapping and modeling is playing a key role in the advancement and accelerated development of the construction industry landscape. The use of this technology for purposes such as proper visualization of the construction site before the construction process is started. The rapid urbanization and industrialization have been a factor that has augmented the adoption of these solutions to make the construction processes more efficient and hence led to cost savings. The healthcare industry also makes use of the 3D mapping and modeling, which is a software in order to assist the surgical process by presenting a clearer picture of the human anatomy so that the problem areas can be highlighted, making it easier for healthcare professionals to understand the complications.

3)  Increasing participation of the key players and government agencies to accelerate the adoption further

To develop and enhance the industry landscape further the market players and some government agencies are increasingly involves in the market through new product launches, investments, upgrades to existing software tools and technologies. For instance, on August 5, 2019,  The National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency announced that they are teaming up with the University of Illinois, Ohio State University and The University of Minnesota for a project called “EarthDEM”, through which that would develop digital elevation models. Under this project, the satellite images of an area from different angles will be fed into the Blue Waters supercomputer and will be able to create the 3D models of the terrain. In addition, in March 2019, DJI, which is one of the leading global suppliers of drones and provider of drone training, announced the launch of their Product “DJITerra”, which is easy to use the software. It provides a comprehensive platform for mission planning, area mapping, and data acquisition and analysis and facilitates the conversion of the data captured by the drone into 3D models and maps. Therefore, these contributions being by the government agencies and market players will lead to a boost in growth of 3D mapping and modeling market.

Conclusion:

Currently, the construction industry a significant share in this market and is anticipated to witness a fast growth rate in the upcoming years due to the burgeoning demand from many countries for efficient planning and survey of a construction site.  With respect to current market trends, it is anticipated that the media and entertainment industry will flourish in the upcoming years owing to the fact that the usage of attractive projections and visuals that capture attention is growing in this industry. There is a growing need for better and effective procedures to conduct processes in the different industries, such as healthcare, retail, aerospace, and defense among others so that the quality of the services and products provided to the customers is of enhanced quality. This will continue to play a central role in driving this market and will attract a lot of new entrants who will bring new and better changes in 3d mapping and modeling technology. Thus, the market will remain competitive in the upcoming years and it is projected to show modest growth in the upcoming years.