It's easy to confuse certain terms that seem similar... but don't mean the same thing! Such is the case with 3D and Augmented Reality.
Both technologies have their own particularities. So what are the differences between 3D and AR?
3D: a visualization tool
3D, or three-dimensional modeling, lets you see virtual objects with volume and depth.
Unlike a 2D image, a 3D object can be rotated, animated and viewed from all angles. 3D is therefore a faithful, dynamic representation of objects.
Where can I find 3D?
- In animated films and video games, objects and characters are often created in 3D for realistic rendering.
- On e-commerce sites to visualize a product (household appliances, clothing...), where the customer can examine the product from different angles before purchasing it.
- In outdoor design, to simulate a space or a product (swimming pool, pergola, awning, shade sail...) in order to project oneself concretely into one's future environment.
Augmented Reality: a simulation tool
Augmented Reality, on the other hand, goes a step further by integrating 3D objects onto real photos. Unlike 3D, where objects can simply be viewed, Augmented Reality superimposes these 3D objects on photos, giving the illusion that they exist for real.
Where can I find Augmented Reality?
- In mobile applications, for example, to virtually try on glasses before buying them.
- In the education sector, to superimpose real objects in the learning environment.
- In the field of exterior design, to project 3D objects such as a swimming pool, an awning or plants onto a real photo, to see how they fit in.
The main differences between 3D and Augmented Reality
The environment :
- 3D makes it easy to visualize objects.
- Augmented Reality superimposes 3D objects on our real environment.
Interaction:
- In 3D, objects can be viewed from various angles, but they remain in a virtual space.
- In Augmented Reality, 3D objects blend into an environment, simulating shading according to the time of day, for example.
Conclusion
3D and Augmented Reality are two related but very different technologies. 3D enables the creation of realistic objects, while Augmented Reality enriches our reality by adding 3D objects to our environment. These two technologies often complement each other, but each has its own field of application.
