Developing of USDZ models for 3D digital analysis results visu-alization in augmented reality

Abstract

The active development of augmented reality (AR) technologies in recent years leads to their increasing application in various fields of sciences. Especially the use of AR can be promising in areas where the results are represented in 3D, have complex shapes and it is of-ten necessary to show them at different angles and zoom, such as digital rock analysis. One of the possible approaches is creating AR-models in the open format of Universal Scene De-scription Zipped (USDZ), developed jointly by Apple and Pixar and currently supported by a huge number of different mobile devices. This 3D format is distinguished by advanced textur-ing based on Physically Based Rendering (PBR), the ability to support high-poly models, 3D animation, sounds, creating complex scenes with the assignment of reactions to individual objects and ease sharing using emails, messengers, and websites. This work briefly describes the basics of USDZ models including file structure, meshing, UV mapping, and texturing. It also discusses the methodology for AR-models development based on the results of digital analysis using free software starting from CT-scanning and finishing with exporting. In addi-tion, the information about the limitations of USDZ models and prospects for the develop-ment of using USDZ models were provided. The results can be used for native demonstration of 3D research output, quick access and exchange the visual information, for exhibitions in museums and educational purposes. AR models make it easy to share the 3D visual results with people, which can be integrated into websites and used for the support of the scientific publications or native demonstrations on conferences.