Trimble, a leading provider of advanced location-based solutions, announced a collaboration today with Umbra, a graphics performance specialist. Trimble currently runs a Mixed-Reality Pilot Program, and the partnership with Umbra will explore the use and integration of the company’s 3D graphics optimization technology to process and optimize complex 3D building information models (BIM).
Umbra’s technology automatically reduces the triangle count and generates varied levels of detail of 3D content, ideal for optimizing the performance of 3D graphics applications in the Trimble Mixed-Reality Pilot Program. It chooses the right level of detail and only shows the objects that are visible to the camera at any given time, reducing demands on wearable technology employing BIM and mixed reality (MR).
“Mixed reality enables professionals and their clients to interact with 3D models. Trimble customers are involved in some of the largest and most complex projects in the world and it’s important to provide a solution which will support their needs,” said Aviad Almagor, director of Trimble’s Mixed-Reality Program. “The computing power needed to visualize large and highly detailed 3D models can outpace the capabilities of mobile and wearable devices, which lack the processing power of professional high-end desktop machines. By collaborating with Umbra, we can leverage technology proven in video gaming to improve the user experience and enable visualization of large and complex Architecture, Engineering and Construction 3D models.”
“Using Umbra, Trimble pilot program users will be able to focus on what’s important about 3D and mixed reality: better communication, richer interaction and faster design review cycles,” said Otso Mäkinen, CEO of Umbra. “With Trimble’s global presence and industry knowledge, this collaboration can enable Umbra to enter new markets and accelerate the 3D revolution. We are very excited to work with Trimble as part of its Mixed-Reality Pilot Program.”
Trimble’s program provides Architecture, Engineering, Construction and Operations (AECO) companies an opportunity to experience how MR technology can transform the way they work. Pilot participants are able to explore and utilize MR in their projects to improve team communication, data interpretation and collaboration during the design development and pre-construction stages of their projects, with Trimble providing training and implementation support on Microsoft HoloLens.
Umbra’s technology has been utilised by numerous partners and developers including Unreal Engine, Unity, World of Tanks, Destiny, The Witcher 3 and many more. It’s especially useful for immersive applications such as MR and virtual reality (VR), which require significant processing power even at an entry level.
VRFocus will continue its coverage of Umbra and Trimble, reporting back with ant further announcements.