Virtual reality technology can produce 3D digital twins of Lincolnshire businesses for clients and staff

To help overcome social distancing measures for Covid-19, Lincolnshire Technology Hubs are offering to create Virtual Immersive Environments or “digital twins” for businesses.
Digital twin 3D images can asily be created for businesses in Lincolnshire during lockdown and beyond. EMN-200623-123518001Digital twin 3D images can asily be created for businesses in Lincolnshire during lockdown and beyond. EMN-200623-123518001
Digital twin 3D images can asily be created for businesses in Lincolnshire during lockdown and beyond. EMN-200623-123518001

These 3D copies were originally designed to help the heritage sector document and preserve historic sites, but have unlimited potential for helping stores, venues and other organisations to reach their audience during COVID-19.

Suitable for everything from venues to offices to showrooms, these immersive 3D images make businesses more accessible – not just during COVID-19, but also beyond.

They are in created in 4K quality and can be accessed by a laptop, phone or Virtual Reality headset, and make everything from virtual guided tours to planning site visits to training possible during this challenging time.

A 3D image of Alexandra palace interior as an example. EMN-200623-123540001A 3D image of Alexandra palace interior as an example. EMN-200623-123540001
A 3D image of Alexandra palace interior as an example. EMN-200623-123540001

Based at the University of Lincoln’s DesignBlok Hub, the team use technology to scan and create interactive 3D models of a required space. This allows exciting experiences such as 3D walkthroughs and guided tours, with viewers able to see and interact with a space from all angles. This could be an estate agent leading a prospective buyer around a property, a tour of an exhibition or a salesman giving a full inside view of a new car.

Prior to COVID-19, the technology was mainly used by industries such as heritage, architecture, construction and conservation to digitally preserve or document an historic location, or to minimise the need for site visits. However, these digital copies are also useful for reaching audiences who struggle to interact with these spaces, such as the elderly or those with a disability.

Now, this technology’s ability to make the inaccessible accessible is one way businesses can overcome the difficulties caused by social distancing, particularly in spaces where the two-metre rule is impossible to enforce. Having a digital copy to share with audiences is also a novel way for businesses to promote their space, with the option of adding key points of interest or hidden stories for visitors to find while traversing the virtual model.

The digital copies can even help businesses to get back on their feet after lockdown, with the virtual models making on-site training a possibility for staff - without the need to visit our premises.

A digital twin view of Mundon St Mary' as an example of what can be produced. EMN-200623-123555001A digital twin view of Mundon St Mary' as an example of what can be produced. EMN-200623-123555001
A digital twin view of Mundon St Mary' as an example of what can be produced. EMN-200623-123555001

Michael Poole, Business Development Manager for the University of Lincoln’s College of Arts, says: “These 3D models are a great way for companies, organisations, museums and attractions to share what they have to offer while maintaining social distancing measures. Audiences can virtually visit these 4K quality replicas via phone, laptop or VR, whether they’re planning future trips to the physical space or just want to enjoy the spectacle as is.

“It also has many exciting yet practical possibilities for business during this uncertain time - from architects viewing buildings remotely, to workmen measuring and navigating their way around possible workspaces.

“Plus, these models are simple to create with a quick turnaround time – we can sometimes have them ready as soon as the next day. There are certainly many opportunities for businesses to use this technology to enhance their customer experience in the current climate and beyond.”

If you are interested in turning your business into an immersive 3D model, email [email protected]. For information on Lincolnshire Technology Hubs, visit the Business Lincolnshire website.

The Business Lincolnshire Growth Hub is a go-to place for businesses looking for assistance with their growth or change plans, whether that is developing new products or processes, understanding how to export to new markets or develop a strategy to upskill a workforce.

Whatever the needs of your business, a Growth Hub Adviser can help you to develop a tailored action plan to move your ideas forwards, directing you to the right sources of further help.

The Business Lincolnshire Growth Hub is funded by the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) and managed by Lincolnshire County Council.