Blog posts tagged with 'matterport'

3D virtual tours are used in many fields such as education, entertainment, recreation, advertising, etc. They provide an interactive and user-guided experience, allowing viewers to move through any location as though they were right there and actually see what’s in every nook and cranny. 

Even though virtual walkthroughs are still most popular amongst real estate agents, hotel owners and property managers, they can benefit many other businesses and institutions. Coláiste Íosagáin is a great example of that.

Future-proof enrolment experience

Coláiste Íosagáin is a large Co-Educational Voluntary Catholic Secondary School in Co. Offaly, with an enrolment of over 1000 pupils. For the past few years they have enrolled between 210 and 240 First Year students. They host Open Evenings each year where they invite potential students from their feeder primary schools to view their campus. When the pandemic hit they had to find new ways of doing things.

They started with making a promotional video for their potential students, but felt it focused more on what the school offers as an educational institution and the enrolment process. What they really wanted was to give the incoming first year students a feel for the school. Since the new students weren’t able to get the usual tour of the building, the decision was made to try a virtual tour as a substitute for in-person events.

Virtual tour of the school was created by an official Matterport Service Provider and Hitechniques Matterport 3D Specialist - Oliver Murray. With the use of the Matterport Pro2 3D Camera Oliver scanned all the corridors, specialist rooms, PE Hall, Canteen and other spaces. All the footage and data were then processed using Matterport software, and within a week a 3D model of the school was ready.

The tour includes a dollhouse view of the school, floor plan, and the virtual walkthrough showing the whole building from almost every angle. You can follow the corridors to a class room, take a look at noticeboards, or even measure the lenght of the basketball court in the PE Hall. 

"We were delighted with the the virtual tour of our school and have sent it out to all the families of our incoming First Years. We have also put the virtual tour on our website. The feedback has been very positive.” Justin Brown, Deputy Principal of Coláiste Íosagáin.

SEE THE TOUR

Reality Capture at it's best

Matterport is one of the leaders in 3D capture technology thanks to their Cortex Artificial Intelligence (AI) which they refer to as a ‘deep learning neural network'. Their Pro2 3D camera offers unbeatable price-quality ratio as well as great accuracy. Pro2 is easy to use, fast and produces high resolution images.

If you're interested in Matterport solutions, get in touch with our expert to talk about your requirements, schedule a demo or learn more about our 3D Capture training courses.

Matterport has become synonymous with advanced 3D capture technology, providing innovative solutions for creating immersive digital twins of physical spaces. Their cutting-edge technology aims to simplify workflows, enhance documentation processes, and elevate customer engagement.

The Matterport 3D Camera allows users to seamlessly scan and digitise spaces, creating highly accurate 3D models the Matterport Pro3 LiDAR Camera. This article delves into the features and benefits of the Matterport 3D Capture App, its applications in various industries, and how Hitechniques supports Irish businesses with comprehensive training and equipment solutions.

Understanding Matterport's 3D Capture App

Overview of the System

The Matterport 3D Pro 3 camera is designed to transform the way professionals capture and document physical spaces. By using the camera, users can create high-resolution digital twins of interiors, exteriors, and complex environments. The Matterport Capture App's intuitive interface makes it accessible to users with varying levels of technical expertise, enabling them to produce accurate 3D models quickly and efficiently.

Matterport's platform uses advanced photogrammetry and LiDAR technology to scan spaces, generating 360-degree views and 4K imagery. The resulting digital twins can be shared and accessed remotely, enhancing collaboration between teams and stakeholders. This capability is particularly beneficial in the AEC sectors, where efficient site documentation and virtual walkthroughs are increasingly in demand.

Expansion of Matterport Technology

Matterport has made significant strides in expanding its technology, making the app compatible with Android devices and integrating with various third-party cameras such as Ricoh and Insta360. This expansion ensures that users can access Matterport's powerful capture technology for use in areas where the accuracy of the Lidar camera is not required, thus broadening its accessibility to a wider range businesses and end uses.

Key Features of the Matterport 3D Capture App

User-Friendly Interface

The app’s intuitive design allows users to easily capture spaces, set up scans, and manage projects. Whether you’re using the Pro2 or Pro3 LiDAR camera, the app guides users through the scanning process, ensuring optimal results with minimal training. Additionally, the app provides real-time feedback, allowing users to monitor scan quality and coverage instantly.

High-Resolution 3D Scanning

The Matterport Pro2 and Pro3 cameras capture spaces in high resolution, producing detailed 3D models that include 4K photography and 360-degree views. The Pro3 LiDAR camera excels in capturing both indoor and outdoor spaces, thanks to its advanced laser sensor technology.

Below is a comparison of the key features between the Pro2 and Pro3 cameras:

Integration with Multiple Camera Systems

Matterport’s app is compatible with a wide range of cameras beyond Matterport’s own Pro series. This flexibility allows users to capture visual tours without 3D data using cameras such as Ricoh Theta or Insta360 models. This integration allows for weekly reporting on certain sized projects for example.

Real-Time Processing and Cloud Integration

The Matterport 3D Capture App processes scans in real-time and uploads the data to Matterport’s cloud platform. This cloud-based Cortex AI system then processes the material from the Capture App into the finished 3D model. Users can access, edit, and share digital twins from anywhere, making it an invaluable tool for collaboration, remote inspections, project updates, and client presentations.

Extensive Output Options

The Matterport platform offers several outputs, including MatterPak bundles, E57 files, and TruePlan assets, which can be imported into industry-standard software like AutoCAD, Revit, and Xactimate. This versatility ensures that Matterport’s digital twins integrate seamlessly into existing AEC workflows.

Benefits of Using the Matterport 3D Capture App

• Improved Workflow Efficiency: Matterport’s technology significantly streamlines documentation, measurement, and reporting processes. By digitising spaces and creating virtual twins, professionals can reduce on-site visits, speed up approvals, and improve communication with clients and teams.
• Cost-Effectiveness and Scalability: For businesses looking to optimise budgets, the ability to hire Matterport cameras allows flexibility in scaling operations. Hitechniques offers rental services for Matterport Pro2 and Pro3 cameras, enabling companies to leverage the technology for specific projects without long-term investments.
• Enhanced Client Engagement: Matterport’s digital twins are perfect for creating immersive virtual tours, which can be shared with clients for property viewings, site inspections, or remote walkthroughs. This interactive experience enhances client engagement, especially in real estate, where virtual tours have become a critical tool for property sales.
• Versatile Applications Across Industries: The Matterport 3D Capture App has applications beyond AEC sectors, including insurance, hospitality, and marketing. Its ability to create accurate, detailed models simplifies remote inspections, damage assessments, and promotional content, making it a versatile tool for various industries.

Practical Applications of the Matterport Technology

Architecture and Construction

Matterport’s 3D models enable architects and construction professionals to document site conditions, track project progress, and verify measurements. This data can be used for creating as-built models, project reports, and compliance documentation.

Real Estate and Property Management

Virtual tours are a powerful tool for property agents, allowing prospective buyers to explore properties remotely. Matterport’s technology helps increase engagement and accelerate sales by providing a realistic viewing experience.

Insurance and Loss Assessment

Accurate 3D scans are invaluable for documenting property conditions before and after incidents, ensuring thorough and reliable insurance assessments. By using Matterport’s digital twins, insurers can streamline the claims process and reduce disputes.

Hospitality

Hotels, event venues, and retail spaces use Matterport’s immersive tours to showcase their properties online, attracting more customers and driving engagement. Venues can allow clients to virtually visit the banqueting facility showing it set up for a wedding, conference, exhibition, or even multiple different setups for each event type.

Marketing

Matterport technology is also ideal for marketing agencies looking to create high-impact digital content. Many companies use the 3D virtual tours to show the correct merchandising of the stores, by recording one store and sharing with the brand’s other outlets.

Getting Started with the Matterport 3D Capture App

Downloading and Setting Up

To begin using the Matterport 3D Capture App, download it from the App Store or Google Play. Once installed, create an account and connect your Matterport camera or compatible device. The app provides step-by-step guidance to ensure users are ready to start capturing spaces immediately.

Capturing Your First Space

Start by setting up your camera and marking key features in the space you want to capture. Use the app to monitor scan coverage and quality in real-time. Once completed, the data is uploaded to Matterport’s cloud for processing.

Post-Production Tips

Optimise your digital twin by editing scans, adding labels, and customising navigation settings. Matterport’s platform allows users to enhance tours with 360 views, highlight reels, and Mattertags to create an interactive experience. Share the final tour via a unique link or embed it on your website.

Conclusion: Matterport's 3D Virtual Tours

Matterport’s 3D Virtual Tours offers unparalleled capabilities for professionals across various industries, from construction to real estate. At Hitechniques, we are committed to empowering Irish businesses with the latest in 3D capture technology and providing the training and support needed to maximise its potential.

Hitechniques Role in the Irish Market

Authorised Matterport Distributor and Training Provider

Hitechniques is the exclusive authorised distributor of Matterport cameras and solutions in Ireland. We provide the latest Matterport products, including the Pro2 and Pro3 cameras, available for purchase, lease, and hire. Our team is dedicated to helping Irish businesses leverage Matterport’s technology to streamline their operations and enhance project documentation.

Comprehensive Training Programmes

We offer specialised Matterport 3D Capture Training Courses designed to help users unlock the full potential of the technology. The training covers everything from optimal camera setup and scanning techniques to post-production editing using Matterport’s cloud platform. Participants will gain hands-on experience in creating digital twins, adding Mattertags, and using assets like MatterPak and TruePlan for integration into software such as Revit and AutoCAD.

Training is conducted in small groups to ensure personalised attention, with bespoke courses available for larger teams or specific business needs.

Transform your business with cutting-edge 3D capture technology—contact us today for expert guidance, equipment, and training solutions tailored to your needs. 

Matterport's new "Defurnish" feature is a game-changer for real estate and AEC professionals, allowing you to view spaces without furniture. However, directly sharing a defurnished view isn't straightforward—yet. Here's a quick workaround:

Steps:

1. Log In and Share:

   • Access your Matterport account on a desktop computer.
   • Select the desired space and click "Share" in the top right corner.
   • Choose "Unlisted" and then click "Copy Link."

2. Generate the Defurnished Link:

   • Paste the copied link into a new browser window.
   • In the Matterport model, click the "Defurnish" toggle (bottom left).
   • Now copy the URL from the browser's address bar.

3. Share the Defurnished View:

   • Use the newly copied URL to share the defurnished version of your Matterport model.

Important Note:

• Currently, Matterport only provides a direct share link for the furnished version.
• Matterport has announced that they are working on adding the ability to share the defurnished view directly, and to toggle the guided tour navigation between the two states. This announcement was made on February 20th 2025.
• Until that update is released, this workaround allows you to share your defurnished models effectively.

Encountering strange glitches in your Matterport Pro 3 scans? We recently had a few reports of a puzzling issue where preview images showed a "fracture" at the image join points, even though the final virtual tour looked perfect. (See before & after photos). We tested this with multiple cameras, tripods in different locations and the apparent issue were consistent.

The solution? A simple firmware update! After updating our Matterport Pro 3 camera's firmware, the preview glitch vanished. This highlights the importance of keeping all your Matterport software up to date.

Keep reading for a quick guide to ensure smooth Matterport captures.

Keeping Your Matterport Software Up-to-Date

Regularly check for updates for the three key components - iPad operating system, Matterport App and Matterport camera firmware. See below our step-by-step instructions.

iPad Operating System:

• Go to Settings > General > Software Update

Matterport App:

1. Open the App Store
2. Tap your profile icon (top right)
3. Scroll or search for the Matterport app. (Note: The Matterport Showcase app is not relevant for capture.)
4. Update if available.

Matterport Camera Firmware:

1. Connect iPad to building's Wi-Fi.
2. Open the Matterport app.
3. Tap Settings (bottom left).
4. Follow the Firmware update link.
5. Disconnect iPad from building's Wi-Fi.
6. Turn on your Matterport camera.
7. Connect your iPad to the camera's Wi-Fi.
8. An update prompt should appear. If not:
9. Go to Settings within the app.
10. Follow the prompts to update the firmware.

By keeping your iPad OS, Matterport app, and camera firmware current, you can prevent unexpected issues and ensure your virtual tours are flawless.