AR (Augmented Reality) is an interactive experience of a real-world environment where the objects that reside in the real world are "augmented" by computer-generated perceptual information, sometimes across multiple sensory modalities, including visual, auditory, haptic, somatosensory, and olfactory. ______Wikipedia
In GIS filed, SuperMap conducted researches in POI, BIM and StreetView to explore AR and GIS integration. The integrated technology of AR and GIS supports recognitions of virtual 2D maps and 3D scenes and reality, especially in target searching, AR real-time navigating, building inspecting, 3D flooring, and splitting.
We launched SuperMap GIS 9D(2019) product with AR map function, which offers more realistic map effects. When compared with traditional maps, AR maps are more interactive and more practical. And we would introduce it from four points: the rapid land and object recognition, the AR+BIM integration, the multiple application modes, and the wide fields of application.
The rapid land and object recognition
Map recognition is always a user-concerned question. For instance, even when you are located, orientation and direction distinguishing is still not an easy thing to do. Now, the AR map can well cope with this problem, which integrates image recognizing real-time sensing, SLAM, GPS and other technologies to perform image modeling and operate recognition control actions.
With SuperMap technology, map can automatically match the sensor position, orientation, POI and other elements and integrate the real world and the virtual world with 1:1 ratio. To superimpose the virtual geometric image information and attribute information on camera real scene display based on real-time sensor and to update virtual information through the human-computer interaction of the touch screen gesture, the object position can be recognized rapidly and the more detailed and real object space information can be delivered.
AR, BIM integration
BIM (Building Information Modeling) can integrate engineering information, processes and resources at different stages of project life cycle into a 3D model to achieve multi-disciplinary collaboration in engineering design, construction, operation and maintenance.
SuperMap iMobile 3D platform integrates BIM and AR technology, which allows quick BIM data display by using mobile phones and tablet devices. To meet the need of viewing detailed structure component, problems in the construction stage can be quickly discovered by comparing reality models with virtual models.
Also, the cutting function can display internal structure components and pipelines data information effectively in real-time.
The multiple application modes
SuperMap iMobile AR map provide proximity mode, follow-up mode, and unlimited screen browsing mode to meet different application requirements and bring a targeted map application experience.
Proximity mode: it integrates virtual world with real world, but independents from maps, which can automatically identify and display POI position, distance, direction, attributes and other information, and can be applied to land and object recognizing, map browsing, land and object query, POI search, etc.;
Follow-up mode: it integrates the actual environment with the arrow through mobile phone camera, which can guide direction, locate and identify destination quickly, and plays an important role in navigation;
Unlimited screen browsing mode: it can be used for browsing large-scale maps, but no need to drag and drop. The three AR map modes can be freely switched and combined according to the application, which is more convenient.
The wide fields of application
“AR+GIS” can bring a more realistic map experience and can be applied for a wide range of applications. For instance, AR navigation public application can be combined with intelligent voice assistance to carry out nationwide POI search and real-world navigation; the commonly used survey application in mobile GIS can also be realized by AR map. Real-time survey application with AR map can quickly realize land and object location, POI search, and data 1:1 verification. In 3D application field, AR and BIM integration, AR and 3D model data integration, play a major role in buildings inspecting, BIM model indoor/outdoor roaming, floor segmentation and splitting, and electronic sandbox.
Through the realistic guidance of camera sensor + POI +, and the surrounding interest points display on map and real scene, the AR effect can be achieved. And through the integration of sensors, maps and images, users can find the correct position quickly. What’s more, the provision of multiple AR modes and simple touch-screen operations help enhance the practicability and the applicability of the software from the perspective of human-computer interaction and improve user experience.
The AR map solves the recognition problem of traditional map, which endows map with the role of information carrier and the ability to perceive. With the wide use of 2D and 3D GIS in AR technology, problems of 2D integration, "last 50 meters", construction calibration, can be solved and bring a better application experience for users.
In the future, SuperMap would further strength the integration of AR technology and GIS based on current achievements, and would apply AR technology to other GIS traditional services, such as construction line calibration, underground pipeline inspection and fault point marking, AR indoor navigation, etc. to form a full-functional AR map and to improve users’ GIS business and information level.
SuperMap iMobile is committed to bring more advanced and practical IT into GIS applications. For more progress, SuperMap will continue to integrate AR and GIS and re-enable GIS applications to provide professional and high-quality GIS services to users worldwide.