Real-Time Spatial Mapping in Architectural Visualization: A Comparison among Mixed Reality Devices

Sensors (Basel). 2024 Jul 21;24(14):4727. doi: 10.3390/s24144727.

Abstract

Recent advancements in communication technology have catalyzed the widespread adoption of realistic content, with augmented reality (AR) emerging as a pivotal tool for seamlessly integrating virtual elements into real-world environments. In construction, architecture, and urban design, the integration of mixed reality (MR) technology enables rapid interior spatial mapping, providing clients with immersive experiences to envision their desires. The rapid advancement of MR devices, or devices that integrate MR capabilities, offers users numerous opportunities for enhanced entertainment experiences. However, to support designers at a high level of expertise, it is crucial to ensure the accuracy and reliability of the data provided by these devices. This study explored the potential of utilizing spatial mapping within various methodologies for surveying architectural interiors. The objective was to identify optimized spatial mapping procedures and determine the most effective applications for their use. Experiments were conducted to evaluate the interior survey performance, using HoloLens 2, an iPhone 13 Pro for spatial mapping, and photogrammetry. The findings indicate that HoloLens 2 is most suited for the tasks examined in the scope of these experiments. Nonetheless, based on the acquired parameters, the author also proposes approaches to apply the other technologies in specific real-world scenarios.

Keywords: HoloLens 2; MR device; architectural visualization; augmented reality; iPhone; photogrammetry; spatial mapping.

Grants and funding

This research was supported by the MSIT (Ministry of Science and ICT), Korea, under the ITRC (Information Technology Research Center) support program (IITP-2024-2020-0-01846) supervised by the IITP (Institute for Information & Communications Technology Planning & Evaluation). This research was also supported by the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism and Korea Creative Content Agency (Project Number: RS-2024-00401213). The present Research has been conducted by the Research Grant of Kwangwoon University in 2021.