Google has released many revolutionary products over the years, and another one is on its way out of the lab. Project Tango, Google’s 3D scanning camera, was originally developed to bring 3D scanning capabilities to smartphones, according to the Independent.
"Project Tango devices contain customized hardware and software designed to track the full 3D motion of the device, while simultaneously creating a map of the environment," according to the Project Tango website. "These sensors allow the device to make over a quarter million 3D measurements every second, updating its position and orientation in real-time, combining that data into a single 3D model of the space around you."
Besides the obvious gaming capabilities, Google says the technology could allow people to give easy directions around a new building, or map out the dimensions of a home before buying furniture. The technology has obvious applications for the AEC market, such as punchlisting and augmented reality.
A special kit for developers has been released for Project Tango that allows engineers to develop apps using the technology. Google is said to be partnering with LG to create a version of the technology for public release sometime this year.
Related Stories
BIM and Information Technology | Feb 24, 2016
5 tips for creating photorealistic architectural renderings
Storytelling, authenticity, and detail are vital to producing lifelike project artwork, according to a digital art specialist.
Augmented Reality | Feb 17, 2016
Startup Meta unveils holographic augmented reality prototype
The startup is an underdog in the AR battle but has a range of investors and fans.
Game Changers | Feb 5, 2016
London’s ’shadowless’ towers
Using advanced design computation, a design team demonstrates how to ‘erase’ a building’s shadows.
Game Changers | Feb 4, 2016
GAME CHANGERS: 6 projects that rewrite the rules of commercial design and construction
BD+C’s inaugural Game Changers report highlights today’s pacesetting projects, from a prefab high-rise in China to a breakthrough research lab in the Midwest.
Drones | Feb 3, 2016
A new volume measurement tool makes drone imagery easier to analyze
DroneDeploy’s latest app is available for all mobile devices.
BIM and Information Technology | Jan 27, 2016
Seeing double: Dassault Systèmes creating Virtual Singapore that mirrors the real world
The virtual city will be used to help predict the outcomes of and possible issues with various scenarios.
BIM and Information Technology | Jan 26, 2016
How the Fourth Industrial Revolution will alter the globe’s workforce
The next great technological metamorphosis will be unlike anything humankind has experienced before, due to the sheer size, speed, and scope of disruption.
Great Solutions | Jan 20, 2016
Skanska’s new app helps construction teams monitor and meet environmental quality standards while renovating hospitals
App allows users to track noise, differential pressure levels, vibration, and dust
Augmented Reality | Jan 19, 2016
Will Generation Virtuals' office be a pair of glasses?
A waning need for office buildings may be on the horizon, thanks to the possibility of working remotely via new technologies like Google Cardboard, writes HDR's Rachel Park.
BIM and Information Technology | Dec 21, 2015
Laser scanning and in-shop prefabrication a boon for the WellStar Paulding Hospital
Contractor Brasfield & Gorrie’s use of BIM and prefabrication on the Hiram, Ga., hospital shows how digital tools can lead to savings, safety, and better construction.