Tag: 3D map design

3D Wayfinder supports now GLTF for 3D floorplans and SVG for 2D floorplans. This provides new features and better-looking maps.

Now there is a support for new 3D model format GLTF for 3D maps and also integrated support for SVG (vector-based images) for 2D maps. GLTF enables smaller files size and new possibilities to make 3D maps better-looking. SVG at the same time makes 2D map creation easier, as SVG is vector-based format. This allows to upload maps with mark ceilings or areas (by SVG polygons). Therefore with our wayfinding software these ceilings can be link with locations and they can be clickable and highlighted.

We will write about SVG benefits in new post also we will provide short tutorials, how to use SVG in 3D Wayfinder. Here we will cover GLTF as this opens up a whole new world for 3D maps.

In the dynamic world of web development, technology is constantly evolving to create richer and more immersive experiences for users. One such innovation that has been making waves is the GLTF (Graphics Library Transmission Format) format for 3D. GLTF is changing the game by enabling efficient and seamless integration of 3D graphics into web applications, paving the way for a new era of interactive and visually stunning online content. Now we have also GLTF support in 3D Wayfinder.

GLTF stands for Graphics Library Transmission Format. GLTF is an open standard file format design to store and exchange 3D scenes and models with the purpose to optimize transmission and rendering across different platforms and devices. The format is Develop by the Khronos Group (same consortium behind widely use standards like OpenGL and Vulkan). The goal of GLT is to remove limitations of existing 3D file formats and enabling efficient delivery of 3D content on the web.

Advantages of GLTF

• Compact File Size: GLTF employs efficient compression techniques to minimize file sizes without compromising on visual quality. This is crucial for web applications, as smaller files ensure faster load times and smoother user experiences. With 3D Wayfinder, it will make loading 3D maps faster. Also, there is no need for converting 3D models, when uploading maps to 3D Wayfinder.

• Ease of Integration: GLTF files are specifically designed to work seamlessly with modern web technologies like WebGL, making it easier for developers to integrate 3D content into their websites without extensive workarounds or plugins.

• Support for PBR: Physically Based Rendering (PBR) is a technique that simulates how light interacts with surfaces in the real world. GLTF supports PBR, allowing for highly realistic and visually captivating 3D graphics.

• Animations and Interactivity: GLTF supports animations and allows developers to define interactive elements within the 3D scene. This capability opens the door to creating engaging interactive experiences that go beyond static visuals.

Please stay tuned, as we will write more about SVG support also in near future.

In this post, we will introduce different options for designing 3D map. A map mostly serves the task of guiding people, but there are many different ways to design a map. When designing a map, a lot depends on what the map is designed for, which people use it, what kind of user experience they expect and what added value the map should create.

Detailed designing of 3D model

With 3D Wayfinder, you can design your own 3D map, but we also offer a complete solution with several detail levels. One way is to create very detailed designing 3D map. These are models where the textures are precise, so that it looks as real as possible. Such a 3D model is important for advertising apartment buildings, so future residents can get a very accurate idea of ​​their home.

It is not always necessary to create detailed models for the purpose of selling houses or apartments. For example, the building of the University of Applied Sciences in Tallinn has historical value. They wanted to bring a historical feel to the 3D map as well. Therefore, a detailed and realistic model was created for them.

Funway 2D map

A complete opposite to the realistic models are 2D maps. This is a map drawn using the FunWay method, which does not convey a real image, but has a nice design and is understandable to all users.

We have also prepared a detailed 3D model for them, which is much more realistic and the icons on the model are slightly more emphasized.

Simplified map view

Everyone is probably familiar with the feeling of getting lost in a hardware store and spending time for lookinf certain products. We have prepared an interior map for the hardware store in Estonia, by shelves and departments. Pins for products from specific companies have been added to the shelves and departments, which makes it much easier for customers to search for specific products. Creating such a card is quick and easy. For customers, it makes the experience of visiting a hardware store more pleasant.

A similar simplified map is suitable for shopping centers, where different businesses can advertise themselves by the logo attached to the map, and it is much easier for the customer to find the desired location.

Color based design

The designing 3D map can be based on the colors of the website or logo. For example the Kuwait Oil Company hospital map is inspired by the dark blue color of their website and logo.

Similar to the color scheme of the Kuwait hospital, a map has also been created for IdeaPark based in Finland. The color scheme of the IdeaPark shopping center is green, and a map was made for them with the same color scheme.

In addition to 3D models and maps, 3D Wayfinder also offers the option of creating a mobile app. The Ülemiste Center in Estonia has requested such a solution. Clients of the center can use the map application on a personal mobile device. The background of the Ülemiste Center mobile application map is displayed in a dark color to make it more visible on a small screen.

As you have seen, 3D Wayfinder can design very unique looking maps. In addition to the big picture, there are many options for fine tuning. For example, it is possible to choose colors of the ceiling, floor, walls and other similar surfaces. It is also possible to change shapes and colors of the road guidance, shape and color of the adjacent menu and much more. All this affects the user experience and creates value for the branding of the building or company.

Hello 3D Wayfinder users, we have put together an instruction for you to make adding locations faster and simpler. Creating your 3D visualizations paths its easier than ever before with 3D Wayfinder.

The following information diagram shows how to add locations to your floor plans step-by-step. After adding the locations you can link them to your wayfinding paths.

The first graphic shows you how to add a location to the list of locations:

The second graphic displays the instructions how to link the roof of the location in your floor plans to the Point of Intrest in your locations list :

Following these instructions you will be able to add locations to the 3D Wayfinder software in a couple of minutes.

Good luck in creating your 3D visualizations paths!

We have uploaded new demo projects into 3D Wayfinder. These new 3D demonstration projects with 3D visualized models allow our users to start checking out 3D Wayfinder. Without having to upload their own model or floor plans. You can start creating a new project instantly. You can look around in our demonstration data to learn how the 3D Wayfinder works.

The new models cover a variety of different kind of buildings and model qualities. You can see the modelling of Standard and Lite versions of shopping malls. In addition to a residential building and a hospital. This allows you to access our 3D architectural visuals with our Free user. You can see the different kind of structures and textures yourself. All these functions are available for use by registering with 3D Wayfinder.

You can also use the projects to take a look at the options of editing and creating your own paths into the 3D architecture. In the “editor” panel you are able to create and delete paths made out of nodes and direct people where you want them to. This will allow you to see how the software will look like in the wayfinding kiosk.

You just need to create an account and start discovering the possibilities of 3D Wayfinder.

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