Comprehensive Guide for 3D/AR Viewer

Introduction

For years, furniture stores have functioned in the brick-and-mortar format. To establish the same experience of the offline store as your online store, you must create a fulfilling buying experience for your customers that supersedes the in-person retail shopping experience.

Why are customers opting for tech like 3D viewers and AR viewers?

The primary concern shoppers have when buying furniture online is whether it is the right size and aesthetic for their space—letting them visualize the furniture from all sides and angles and even enabling them to visualize it in their own space to see if it is the right size and matches the vibe they want to create. It would make furniture browsing fun for them and rewarding for you.

How are major furniture brands solving this?

The answer is simple - 3D and AR Viewer!

So, what are 3D and AR viewers, and how can they be used to create an engaging customer experience for your furniture business?

We will cover all of it in this comprehensive guide.

What are 3D and AR Viewers?

3D Viewer

As the name suggests, a 3D Viewer is a web-based tool that enables users to view 3D objects in a browser. Using a 3D viewer, users can pan, zoom in, and rotate the model to view it from different perspectives and examine the intricacies of the product. Some 3D viewers even provide features like measurement tools and rendering options to enhance user experience.

3D Viewers are used in a wide variety of industries, from industrial manufacturing to travel and tourism. However, the e-commerce industry maximizes its potential by significantly enhancing online shopping experiences, enabling users to examine the product thoroughly before making a purchase.

AR Viewer

An Augmented Reality 3D Viewer (AR Viewer) is a tool for manipulating the virtual view through a camera lens by superimposing the 3D model onto the real-world environment in real-time. It involves blending computer graphics into the user’s view of the real world using a display device like a smartphone or tablet. This creates an illusion that the overlaid model is actually part of the physical environment.

Augmented Reality was first used for navigation by NASA for their X-38 spacecraft in 1998. Subsequently, the technology spread to mainstream industries like real estate and marketing. Lately, many companies have begun using AR viewers as promotional tools in

Understanding 3D Viewer Technology

The emergence of 3D Model Viewer technology has transformed visualization across the e-commerce industry. Gone are the days when two-dimensional, static images were used to display your products. With a 3D Viewer, users can interact with your furniture until they’re completely satisfied before purchasing.

Types of 3D Viewers

Customer satisfaction is a priority for any business. You want your customers to be satisfied with your products and the overall buying experience. A 3D product customizer helps you achieve just that.

1. Desktop Applications

Desktop applications of 3D Viewers can be installed on your PC. They allow you to zoom, rotate, and even edit the models sometimes.

Microsoft 3D Viewer, for example, can be installed on Windows to view and edit 3D models in real-time.

2. Web-based Viewers

Web-based viewers allow customers to view 3D models of your products on a browser. E-commerce platforms usually use them to provide enhanced customer visualization.

Ikarus Delta’s AR Viewer is a web-based viewer that creates a seamless browsing experience for your online store.

3. 3D Viewer for Mobile

3D Viewers can also be integrated into mobile applications. They can leverage the device’s properties, like the touchscreen format, to enhance user interactivity. 3D Viewer for iPhone and 3D Viewer for Android allows users to view 3D models in their respective formats.

File Formats Supported by 3D Viewers

3D Viewers usually support a variety of file formats, the most commonly supported ones being FBX, GLB, glTF, STL, and PLY. This feature allows them to display models created in different software.

How 3D Models are Displayed and Rendered on the Web?

You must be wondering how 3D Viewers render and display models. Since there are a variety of 3D Viewers available in the market, the render and display process is different for each one. How 3D viewers render and display models in Blender differs from how they render and display in Microsoft’s 3D Viewer. Here is how we do it at Ikarus Delta.

1. Build 3D Models

As the name suggests, 3D models are requisite for a 3D viewer. We start by building realistic 3D models of your products using different software according to your requirements.

2. Models Optimized for 3D Viewer

The 3D model is optimized for viewing on the 3D Viewer. To ensure a seamless viewing experience, high-quality low-poly models are used. The camera positions are adjusted to ensure the model can be viewed from all sides.

3. Embedding and Enabling Web View for 3D

Once the model is fully optimized, it is uploaded on the web and embedded into the 3D Viewer on your website. Cloud storage is required to embed it on your platform.

4. Ready for use

Once your fully optimized 3D model is embedded into the 3D viewer, it is ready for use by your customers to view your creations from all sides and angles.

Key Functionalities of a 3D Viewer

3D viewers are transforming e-commerce experiences, especially in the furniture industry. They make the entire process of furniture buying engaging and add a new level of trust for the customers. What features make this possible? Let’s find out.

1. Interactive Navigation

The models in a 3D viewer can be viewed from all angles and sides. They can be moved around for a 360-degree view. Additionally, customers can zoom in and out to view the details of your furniture's designs.

2. Measurement Tools

Another essential feature is the measurement tools of 3D viewers. These tools let customers accurately measure the sides and angles of the furniture piece. This feature makes the online buying experience more convenient than in-store buying since the measurements can be tested before placing the order.

3. Annotations

Some 3D Viewers also include the option of adding annotations. Interactive annotations can display text boxes explaining the specifications of a specific part of the furniture model when it is clicked on.

4. Configurable Models in 3D Viewers

3D Product Configurators can be integrated into the 3D viewers to allow users to experience real-time furniture customizations. Instead of uploading a ton of pictures of the different variations of the same furniture, a configurator can be integrated to enhance the product presentations on your website.

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Exploring AR Viewer Technology

AR viewers are the future of 3D technology. They bring your designs to life by superimposing 3D models of your products in a real-world environment. Augmented reality is changing online shopping experiences across industries, enabling new ways to visualize and engage with information.

Types of AR Viewers

AR viewers can be divided into two major categories: Marker-based AR Viewers and Markerless AR Viewers. Both groups use an external trigger-based system, with the only differences being where the trigger comes from and how the program responds.

1. Markerless AR Viewers

Markerless AR Viewers use user data from location tracking, cameras, and other sensors. This data acts as a trigger for AR viewers, generating the output based on this. Markerless AR Viewers are usually used by mobile applications.

Based on the devices used, AR Viewers can be divided into three categories: app-based AR Viewers, Web-based AR Viewers, and AR Glasses.

2. Marker-based AR Viewers

Marker-based AR viewers use external triggers to generate a pre-determined output on the viewer’s screen. They can be incorporated into mobile applications and web browsers.

For example, when customers scan a QR code on your website, Ikarus Delta’s AR viewer will show them what your furniture would look like in their physical environment. In this case, the QR code will act as a fiducial trigger.

3. App-based AR Viewers

App-based AR Viewers make use of mobile applications to display models. The app integrates digital content into the user’s real-world environment.

The multimedia messaging app Snapchat uses app-based AR Viewers that let users play around with filters that overlay graphics over the user’s display screen.

4. Web-based AR Viewers

Web-based AR Viewers deliver augmented reality experiences through a web browser. Users do not have to download apps to view the AR simulation. They can simply click on the URL and view the AR through their device's camera.

For example, Ikarus Delta’s AR Viewer is a web-based AR viewer. Users can experience AR using the Viewer by simply scanning the QR code.

How Do They Work

AR Viewers superimpose or blend computer-generated graphics or information onto the user’s real-world view through a display device. It sounds complex, so let us break it down for you.

1. Tracking the User Environment

The AR system tracks the user environment to align the virtual content accurately. Marker-based, markerless, or sensor-based tracking can be used for this.

2. Scene Analysis

The AR system analyses and understands the scene in view to identify the surfaces or objects on top of which the 3D model can be placed.

3. Registration

The virtual content is aligned and registered in the real-world setting. This involves mapping, positioning, and orienting the objects to match the corresponding real-world coordinates.

4. Rendering and Superimposition

The AR system renders the final content and blends it seamlessly with the user's real-world surroundings. The rendering process takes into account the lighting, shadows, and distance between physical objects to render a realistic output on the screen.

Real-time updates take place to adjust the display according to the user’s movements and changes in the environment.

Supported Platforms and Devices

Not every mobile device or tablet is compatible with AR; however, most newly released devices are. The two main AR platforms are Apple’s ARkit and Google’s ARCore.

ARKit, compatible with iOS, produces seamless AR experiences for iPad and iPhone. ARCore, on the other hand, provides smooth experiences across iOS, Android, Unity, and LG Web.

Benefits of Using 3D and AR Viewers

3D Viewers and AR 3D Model Viewers are powerful tools that allow users to interact dynamically and effectively with your products. They offer a range of benefits to the customers as well as the businesses.

Improved Product Visualization and Marketing

One key benefit of 3D and AR Viewers is that they accurately represent complex designs. All the intricacies in furniture design cannot be contained in static images. Thus, 3D visualization enhances the details and gives a much clearer understanding of its form and function.

Additionally, a study by NielsenIQ shows that 51% of consumers prefer assessing their products using AR before purchasing them. This is especially true for an industry like furniture, where AR Viewers can be integrated to support Virtual showrooms and VTO.

Enhanced User Experience and Engagement

According to a Shopify study, products with an AR/3D Viewer show 94% higher conversion rates. Interactivity significantly enhances user experience and engagement as customers can move around their furniture, zoom in and out, and even view it in their own spaces..

Training and Educational Applications

Imagine being able to visualize science experiments or biological diagrams as a part of your academic curriculum. It would make the entire learning process more exciting and immersive.

The Human Anatomy Atlas 2023 is a cross-platform AR Viewer that enables students to learn about complex human anatomy using AR and 3D Viewers.

Collaboration and Remote Work

In the post-pandemic era, more and more people are opting for remote work. AR Viewers have optimized collaboration for remote working environments with features like live text scan, live camera streaming, and immersive training sessions.

Practical Applications of 3D and AR Viewers

3D and AR viewers have taken various industries by storm, transforming how they function almost entirely. They can be integrated into different platforms and applications, making the technology easily accessible. Here are some practical applications of 3D and AR viewers across different industries:

E-commerce and Retail

The retail industry has witnessed a significant shift in consumer expectations over the past few years. Research highlights that 61% of shoppers prefer retailers that provide AR experience.

The most obvious use of AR in retail and e-commerce is VTO (Virtual try-ons). From the cosmetic industry to fashion retail, VTO has gained significant popularity. Global cosmetic brand MAC Cosmetics is one of the first to install VTO mirrors in its stores. These mirrors let customers try various looks virtually.

Another 3D solution that has gained popularity is the 3D Product Configurator. Product Configurators allow viewers to customize products in real-time and explore variations.

Architecture and Real Estate

Architectural Visualization has been a phenomenon since the early 1400s. With the evolution in 3D tech, architects were the first to adopt 3D rendering for professional use.

Today, AR Viewers provide virtual tours of future architectural landscapes. Interior designers also use them to overlay designs in a particular space to help customers visualize the final concept.

Education and Training

AR and 3D Viewers are also used to educate and train students and employees. 3D Visualization allows trainers to display 3D models and provide hands-on training using AR technology.

AR and VR simulations are used in aircraft training to build confidence and reinforce muscle memory.

Entertainment and Gaming

The entertainment industry has eagerly embraced AR viewers to transform how audiences interact with shows, movies, and video games. They create immersive experiences for live events and movies.

In the realm of video games, AR is used to develop life-like situations, enhancing the user experience. Pokemon Go presents an excellent example of AR technology in gaming. Pokemon appear in and around the real-world environment around you. Location-based markerless AR Viewers are used for the game.

Choosing the Right 3D and AR Viewer

Every business has unique needs that determine the kind of 3D solutions they need. To select the right 3D or AR viewer for your business, consider the following factors:

Platform Compatibility

The first factor to consider is the AR viewer's compatibility. Is it compatible with different platforms and devices? Does it operate seamlessly across all Operating Systems?

Ikarus Delta’s AR Viewer is compatible with various platforms, such as smartphones, tablets, and AR Glasses, providing users with a seamless experience on each one.

1. AR Glasses

AR Glasses may differ in shape, size, and design, but the basic idea remains common. They enhance reality with digital overlays that contain helpful information and data. The devices use a front-facing camera that can recognize anchors and landmarks. The information is displayed on the glasses' screen based on the data received.

The Vision Pro by Apple is the latest addition to the array of AR glasses available in the market. They are compatible with iOS for iPads and iPhones.

Features

features that different viewers offer. Features like compatibility, interactivity, and real-time time rendering without delays or lags are vital to a flawless user experience.

Ikarus Delta’s 3D and AR viewers use high-quality lightweight 3D models that process quickly on a website, allowing users to experience interactivity without long loading times.

Scalability

Scalability refers to the ability of an AR or 3D Viewer to maintain performance consistency with increasing demands, adapt to varying levels of usage, and accommodate large volumes of data.

Our 3D and AR viewers are scalable and optimized to meet rising demands without compromising quality.

Popular Software and Tools - Comparative Analysis

Choosing the best 3D Viewer for your business in the 3D tech market, which is flooded with AR and 3D viewers, must be confusing. To help you decide, we’ve curated a list of the best AR and 3D viewers in the market today.

AR Viewers

Plenty of companies are entering the AR space with new headsets and tools. However, here is our list of the top 3 AR Viewers in the market today.

1. Ikarus Delta’s AR Viewer

With advanced visualization capabilities and enhanced interactivity, Ikarus Delta’s AR Viewer is a fine choice. The viewer is customized to integrate AR into your existing workflows seamlessly. With deep expertise in niche industries like furniture design, our AR viewer is perfect for businesses looking to provide users with an enhanced shopping experience. It can be used on smartphones, tablets, or AR glasses.

2. Microsoft AR Viewer

Microsoft’s AR Viewer, compatible with their Hololens 2, is suitable for standard AR experiences with limited interactive abilities.

3. Google AR Core

The Google AR Core is compatible with multiple operating systems like Android, iOS and Web and offers flexible customization capabilities based on the developer’s needs.

3D Viewers

3D Viewers that support multiple formats can be hard to find. Here are our top picks for you.

1. Ikarus Delta’s 3D Viewer

Ikarus Delta’s 3D viewer is designed to support high-fidelity rendering, making it a great choice for businesses looking for highly detailed models. With advanced interactivity and active rendering, the viewer offers a flawless viewing experience to users.

2. Microsoft 3D Viewer

Microsoft’s 3D Viewer has a simple and user-friendly interface, making it a good option for viewing simplistic models in standard mode. The only drawback is its limited compatibility with devices out of the Microsoft ecosystem.

3. Sketchfab

Sketchfab has a modern interface with intuitive controls and editing options. Its rich interactivity makes it a lucrative option.

Ikarus Delta’s 3D and AR Viewers for ActiveDesk

Ikarus Delta collaborated with ActiveDesk, a UK-based ergonomic furniture brand, to enhance its customer experience. We provided them with various 3D tech solutions, including 3D and AR Viewers, significantly improving their product visualization.

We created lifelike 3D models with clear and accurate representations of each desk option that they provided. Then, we developed a 3D Viewer with interactive measurements, customized product animation, snapshots, and an AR Viewer.

This led to ActiveDesk UK witnessing a 20% bump in customer engagement, a 30% increase in conversions, and 40% lower returns.

Implementing 3D and AR Viewers

By now, you must be wondering how we create, embed, and integrate these viewers into websites for customer use. It might seem like a tedious process, so let us break it down for you:

Creation and Embedding of 3D Models

We start by creating 3D models of your products. We gather data by taking high-definition pictures of your product. We then use these pictures to create a mesh for your product’s 3D model.
Then, we add texture and details to the model using UV wrapping.
Once all the details are added and the model is ready, we perform retopology to optimize the model for web and AR.
Next, we start the embedding process. The 3D/AR viewer is embedded in the host website, where the different 3D models of your products are displayed.

Integration with existing websites or applications

Ikarus Delta adds and integrates 3D and AR Viewer to your website. These websites can be custom coded, built on Shopify, WooCommerce, Adobe Commerce, or any other platforms.
Javascript integration is performed once the 3D viewer is embedded in the website or application using HTML. This enables dynamic loading and interaction with the 3D viewer, such as loading models based on user interactions or API responses.
At this level, device sensors and camera inputs are also integrated to support the 3D Model AR viewer.

Customization

The 3D Viewer is customized to match your brand’s website or application.
To ensure consistency in branding, your brand’s logo, color scheme, and fonts are aligned within the viewer interface.

Optimization and Final Testing

The 3D Viewer is tested across browsers and devices to check its compatibility and ensure consistent performance.
Load times and performance are optimized to eliminate delays and lag and ensure a smooth user experience.

Challenges and Considerations

While 3D and AR viewers are changing user interactions across a wide range of industries, the technology is still evolving. Some challenges and considerations need to be addressed to improve their application.

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Technical Limitations and Performance Issues

Technical limitations include battery, power, memory, and connectivity of AR devices. An AR Viewer's performance highly depends on the device it is being run on. Performance will be directly affected if the device does not support the Viewer properly.

Privacy and Data Security Concerns

3D and AR Viewers collect a large amount of data to identify and understand user behavior. For example, Markerless AR Viewers collect data through location tracking, cameras, and other sensors. This raises issues related to security concerns and data privacy among the users.

User Adoption and Learning Curve

The biggest challenge for 3D and AR Viewers is users' slow adoption of technology. While some users blame the expensive nature of devices such as AR headsets for the delayed adoption, others simply don’t know how to use them. This calls for a mass learning curve among the audience so that they can gain advantage of the technology.

Conclusion

Certainly, 3D and AR viewers are remarkably enhancing experiences across different industries. The technology is already witnessing a boom in e-commerce and retail, architecture and design, and the entertainment industry.

However, different industries require different types of 3D/AR Viewers. Platform compatibility, viewer features, and scalability need to be considered while choosing the best one for your business. Ikarus Delta’s 3D and AR Viewer is compatible with multiple platforms and devices, making it a great option for businesses looking for tailored 3D tech solutions.

With technological advancements, issues like processing speed and device limitations can be tackled effectively. Moving forward, healthcare, education, and automotive industries can increasingly benefit from technology to enhance their experiences and address challenges.

All in all, embracing the possibilities offered by 3D and AR Viewers can help businesses differentiate themselves, improve processes, and deliver compelling experiences to meet customers' ever-rising demands.

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Frequently asked questions