A new application has been launched that enables designers to go on a first-person exploration of their blueprints.
Archi-Me, a tool from Devon-based digital technology specialist MOOFU, allows developers to walk around any 3D CAD models from yachts and cars to buildings and holiday resorts. Users can switch freely between top-down, third-person and first-person views using the avatar technology popularised by the likes of Second Life.
The application also allows users to reshape their surroundings – for example, they can introduce furniture, open doors, talk to other avatars and comment on the designs in real time. These transformed models can then be made available on a website, meaning designers can showcase their latest developments to clients based anywhere in the world.
Nick Palfrey, managing director and founder of MOOFU, said: "We have been stunned by the overwhelming response from our test companies across the globe and with the launch of Archi-Me we are giving a new edge to the way architects, planners, developers and builders create and showcase their work."
Archi-Me builds on Second Life
Archi-Me is the latest attempt to introduce the business community to technology that is already commonplace in the gaming industry. Second Life, launched on June 23rd 2003, was perhaps the project that introduced many companies to the idea of avatars.
This interactive world has its own currency, the Linden dollar, and users can spend it in the game on virtual and real goods. As a result, many high-profile companies have bought Second Life real estate to promote their services, including Vodafone, IBM, Nissan and Lego.
Avatars introduced to design community