Every week, we highlight stories from friends around the internet that put a spotlight on the latest in the 3D technology industry. These stories can take many different forms, whether they be about a new innovation or workflow, an interesting and/or unique use case for 3D technology, or a higher-level look at the state of the sector. Today, we look at the emerging space around Gaussian splats, a real-world example of large-scale digital twins in use, and an interesting use case for lidar.
Find links to the full articles below.
Splats Change Everything
Kirsten M. Johnson | Niantic
In the 3D modelling space, Gaussian splatting has been one of the major innovations of the last few years, quickly becoming an easy way to create 3D models with fewer images than what is required by traditional methods. Geo Week News held a webinar talking about the technique earlier this year. Now, Niantic has recently released an article talking about splatting and why it’s becoming such a big deal within the 3D ecosystem.
Yangtze 'digital twin' helps mitigate impact of flooding
Li Peixuan | China Daily
We hear a lot about the potential for digital twins for larger infrastructure and even entire cities, but it’s not always common to see tangible examples of how this value is created. This article gives a concrete example of this value in China, looking at the Yangtze River. The article highlights a digital twin of the entire river as well as a dam on the river, and how it helps prevent flooding and keep the local areas “a step ahead” for potential flooding scenarios.
Once cold and lonely, ‘snow management’ at Tahoe resorts goes high-tech with lasers
Lisa Krieger | SiliconValley.com
In many parts of the world, ski season is just getting underway with the weather getting colder and snow starting to coat the ground. This means that mountains and ski resorts are getting set to make conditions as close to perfect as possible for the skiers that are about to inundate their areas. This article looks at how lidar is now playing into this work.
