After nearly two years of beta testing, IrisVR recently released their VR platform products, Prospect and Scope, which are now available to the public as version 1.0. As you can imagine, the apps go beyond simple gaming applications, allowing users to 1) push their 3D models to VR quickly and 2) explore their 3D creations in a virtual setting. For example, imagine being able to model something up, drag and drop the native file into the software and instantly view your model in virtual space. IrisVR is making that happen.
Architectural firms are already using Prospect and Scope to evaluate and share their new designs. Marmon Mok Architecture has proven their use in the design of infusion centers at San Antonio’s University Hospital and Mortenson Construction has used the software to garner feedback from Loyola University Medical Center doctors and nurses before new construction begins on their new hospital.
IrisVR Prospect is the incredibly easy to use software for viewing your models in VR fast. Simply drag and drop a Rhino, SketchUp, Revit or OBJ file directly into the app and it delivers them immediately into a VR environment through supported headsets. Point the VR controller and click to to be transported to a different viewing angle. For example, you could explore your product model to scale, seeing it as it would appear in the real world, or explore inside it.
With the feature controller, you’re also able to manipulate the lighting, insert annotation and even draw in the VR space to address design flaws or illustrate changes. Snapshots can be then taken in the virtual world to be shared in the real world. Currently, Prospect is only compatible with the Oculus Rift and HTC Vive VR headset with support for other headsets not specified as of yet.
IrisVR Scope, allows you to take 360 panoramic photos and view them in a VR setting using a mobile devices with Google Cardboard or Samsung’s Gear VR. The app works by using the mobile devices internal sensors to track head movement (@60 frames per second) while viewing the panorama. Panoramas can be created with any software capable of generating 2×6 stereo cubic, 1×12 stereo cubic, mono spherical or stereo spherical panoramas. Once uploaded to the Scope Library, you can view and share your creations.
Both applications are available as a free download with free 21-day trials of the Pro versions. They also have a great Help & FAQ site that goes over everything from Getting Started with VR to the optimal computer build.
