UK company, MOOFU, is launching a new service that enables schools planners, architects and developers using 3D design as a key part of any planned development to transform their 3D CAD (Computer Aided Design) models into fully interactive 3D environments. The Archi-Me solution has particular relevance in providing a means of reducing design and construction costs for education.
The interactive 3D environments created by Archi-Me can be explored and changed by people who use a 3D character (avatar) and simple user interface to walk around, for example, the exterior and interior of a school building. They can rearrange objects, such as chairs, tables and fixtures, and communicate with other avatars using text chat, in much the same way as a person would play a 3D computer game. The avatars can be customised and cover a range of potentials, including wheelchair characters and children of differing sizes.
A key point in all this is that designers do not have to rebuild 3D models from scratch in a different application or solution (like Second Life) at great expense in order to make them fully interactive.
Archi-Me
appreciate your site! Helpful
Posted by: judib | 03 October 2009 at 05:52 PM
Jane,
Ref' the above about navigable 3D technology. Archi-me is not the only way to go! Please have a look at our site www.3dguides.co.uk for something which I would argue is many times better.
Our current range of models is focused on the rather obscure subject of permitted development: "The Planning Permission You've Already Got". Our new series which will be out early in the new year deals with how to turn your house into an eco-home. Its based on the same Hypercosm computer simulation technology. 3D Guides models are truly 'user navigable'. You don't need an avatar, just use your computer mouse to navigate to any view you like.
Why not try it out. Just go to the website and for a quick example, click on the Sample panel at the top of the Get Started box, install the Player and then run the sample right there in your web browser.
Although all the models on the site are 'pre-made' we do offer cost-effective custom modelling services for individual projects.
Hope this is interesting.
Regards
Stephen Ibbitson
Posted by: Stephen Ibbitson | 16 December 2009 at 10:35 AM