Spatial computing offers a seamless machine to machine or human-machine interaction while using AR and VR.
Imagine a building located at a remote locality catches fire and the locality is not well-equipped to quell the spreading fire. In such a scenario, the IoT instrument automatically alerts the fire department regarding the situation so that the detrimental consequences can be thwarted. Additionally, the embedded sensors will not only describe the shortest route and the status of traffic to reach the location but will also provide details about the possible reasons behind the fire. This type of solution is often not offered by traditional IoT or VR devices, but this is possible with spatial computing.
Spatial computing offers a seamless machine to machine interaction or human-machine interaction in a three-dimensional world while using augmented reality (AR), virtual reality (VR) and mixed reality. Spatial computing technology is not a new term; however, it is less known. Ridesharing apps, GPS, smart wearables are all part of the spatial computing technology.
With the increasing adoption of the IoT, VR and AR applications and devices the scope of spatial computing has expanded. It digitizes the processes, collects the data via sensors, and allows the computer hardware to control the object’s functions and operations. This implies that they present the physical world, in a digitally activated space.
Like virtual reality and augmented reality, spatial computing is built in the concept of the digital twin, similar in Computer-Aided Design (CAD). Digital Twins gathers data from the sensors embedded in the system and offers insights into performance and potential problems.
Spatial Computing in Healthcare
In a healthcare framework, the capabilities of spatial computing are expanded during the patient’s care and treatment. The COVID 19 pandemic has already highlighted the need for advanced diagnostic tools. Despite the technological advancements in medicines, the scarcity of an advanced accurate and reliable diagnosis limits patient recovery. However, this particular concern is addressed by VR and AR tools, equipped with spatial computing.
The researchers at the University of Alberta have created a system called ProjectDR, which allows medical images such as CT scans and MRI data to be displayed directly on the patient’s body in a manner that moves as the patients do. The system utilizes spatial computing and includes a motion-tracking system using infrared cameras and markers on the patient’s body. This system presents segmented images of only particular organs, depending on what the clinician wants to see.
Spatial Computing in Manufacturing
The incorporation of Spatial Computing addresses the challenges in production capacity, labor efficiencies and effectiveness in manufacturing. Companies like Vuforia are already leveraging this technology in the form of Spatial Toolbox. This open-source product creates, innovates, and solves complex problems by developing interfaces that facilitate spatial hardware programming.
In manufacturing plants, the tools enabled with spatial computing identify and modify the discrepancies before the system or the object is utilized, thus thwarting the possibility of any unfortunate incidents.
Spatial Computing in Automotive Industry
Spatial computing addresses the challenges of 3D-design in the automotive industry. Companies like Ford are already leveraging Gravity sketch to create detailed 3D models of automobiles with the help of augmented reality and spatial computing.
Outlook
Spatial computing is a technology that intersects the capabilities of AR, VR and IoT. With an increased demand for advanced tools to enhance the customer experience and improve products and services, the outlook of spatial computing in the industry is positive. The industry needs to be prepared for the next wave of digital innovation with spatial computing.
