Launched in July 2017 officially, the Bluetooth mesh technology is an addition to the Internet of Things connectivity and networking space. Bluetooth has been a mainstay in short-range connectivity for tablets, consumer electronics, and smartphones. The Bluetooth Special Interest Group has always delivered tools and specifications that offer multi-vendor, global compatibility.
Continue readingIs Working With an Agency the Best Option for Your Software Project?
Hiring a software development agency is often the best decision a business can make. But there are some cases when you should prioritize hiring an internal team, or working with a lone freelancer. Here is when you should and should not hire an external agency.
Continue reading3D-Scanning for Eye-Frames Manufacturing
3D-Scanning for Eye-Frames Manufacturing
The traditional model of eye-frame manufacturing is plagued by several issues, including high costs, long lead times, and poor fit. However, recent technological innovations have made it possible to use 3D scanning to create better-fitting, more customized eye frames. YouMaWo, a German startup that uses 3D scanning to get measurements for the manufacture of bespoke eyewear, is one example of this new breed of digital manufacturing technology. The benefits of this type of technology include shorter lead times, lower costs, and a better fit for the customer.
1. The Pitfalls of the Traditional Optical Manufacturing Model
The traditional way of manufacturing eye-frames has several drawbacks. First, it is expensive. Second, it takes a long time to produce the frames. Third, the frames often do not fit well on the customer’s face. These problems arise from the fact that the traditional manufacturing process is based on manual labor and is not very efficient.
It is impossible to create one-size fits all eye frames because human faces come in all shapes and sizes. Even people who are of the same height and weight can have very different facial features. For example, one person might have a very round face, while another might have a more angular face.
2. The Technological Innovations with 3D-Scans and Better Devices
In recent years, there have been many technological innovations that have made it possible to create better-fitting, more customized eye frames. These innovations include the iPhone and portable sensors, such as the Structure Sensor.
The iPhone has revolutionized the way we interact with the world around us. Its powerful camera and sensors allow us to capture information in ways that were not possible before. The ability to create mobile apps allows companies to create easy-to-use interfaces for their clients/partners to digitally interact with their ecosystems. Mobile sensors, such as the ones found in the iPhone, are also becoming increasingly powerful and sophisticated.
3D printing is the process of making a three-dimensional object from a digital model. This can be done using a 3D printer, which is a device that prints objects using plastic, metal, or other materials. 3D printing is becoming increasingly popular and more affordable. Technology has come a long way in the past few years, and printers are now able to print objects with much greater precision. This makes them ideal for the manufacture of customized objects, such as eye frames.
3. The Digital Transformation of Eye-Frame Manufacturing
3D printing allows for just-in-time custom-fitted frames. With traditional manufacturing, it can take weeks or even months to get the frames to the customer. With 3D printing, on the other hand, the customer can get fitted frames within days or even hours. This is because there is no need for expensive manual labor or for stock products that may not fit the customer’s face well. And the 3D model used to print the frames can be customized based on the customer’s face measurements.
The next opportunity arises from the need to have precise measurements of a customer’s face, which can be hard to do with traditional measuring instruments. This is where 3D scanners come into play. 3D scanners create a digital 3D-mesh model of the customer’s face, which can be used to generate accurate measurements automatically.
Finally, the difficulty for a customer to select a model without a try-on is found in a just-in-time printed business model. This is solved with a virtual try-on. Using a customer’s 3D-face scan, different models of eyeglasses can be superimposed on the customer’s face to find the perfect fit.
4. How YouMaWo is revolutionizing the frames industry
We worked with YouMaWo, a German startup that is revolutionizing the eye frames industry, to create a mobile app that uses 3D scanning to get measurements of the customer’s face. These measurements are then used to generate a 3D model of the customer’s face and generate automatic measures, which are used to print custom-fitted frames.
The YouMaWo app has many features that make it unique. First, it allows for the easy capture of customer face measurements. Second, it generates a 3D model of the customer’s face, which can be used to print custom-fitted frames. Finally, it allows for virtual try-on. This means that the customer can see how different models of frames look on their faces without having to try them on physically.
Sidekick Interactive – Building World-Class Apps that Integrate 3D-Scanners
Sidekick Interactive is a company that creates world-class native mobile apps integrated with 3D-Scanning technology. These apps use 3D-scanning technology to capture precise measurements of the customer’s body and create many interactive experiences.
If you are interested in learning more about how Sidekick Interactive can help you with your app project, please contact us. We would be happy to discuss your specific needs and requirements.
HP Arize
HP Arize
An iPad app to print custom 3D foot orthotics.
Problem
The client was looking to develop a mobile tool to automate the production of custom-made foot orthotics.
The client was developing the Arize project to deploy 3D printed foot orthoses using their technologies and their network of American clinicians.
HP was looking to develop an automated end-to-end solution with modern native mobile tools.
To print a plantar orthosis with a 3D printer, it takes several resources, including precise measurements of the customer’s foot, as well as the specific foot problems to be solved by the orthosis.
Capturing its measurements and adjustments is typically very manual or done with high-end 3D scanners.
Solution
We have developed an iPad application that connects to Occipital's 3D Structure Sensor scanners.
To optimize the tools in the hands of clinicians, we have developed a native iOS mobile application that interfaces with the 3D Structure Sensor scanner from Occipital and with the TrueDepth Sensor from Apple in order to make precise 3D scans of the feet.
Clinicians can also manage their order books via the app, as well as document their clients and each orthosis.
Sarah Troshian
Project Manager
Sidekick Interactive
Journal Métro
Métro Newspaper
We display WordPress content in a native mobile app format.
Problem
Faced with the Covid-19 crisis and the environmental issue, the Journal Métro had to rethink the format of its paper newspaper.
Journal Métro of MétroMédia is the Montreal newspaper with the most journalists covering local news in the metropolis.
Before the COVID-19 crisis, the Métro newspaper was mainly printed and distributed in Montreal public transport. The environmental issue as well as the reality of the crisis meant that this avenue of distribution was not viable, and that the Métro newspaper had to reinvent itself and go through a digital transformation.
Solution
We have developed a native application connected to the client's WordPress CMS.
Sidekick collaborated with the client to create native iOS and Android mobile applications that allows readers to consume local news directly on their mobile phone receive alerts.
The application connects directly to the Journal Métro WordPress and interprets the articles to be able to make a native presentation, including social media inserts, for example.
“Once again, we took on the challenge of developing a native mobile application while adapting and integrating it with the client’s existing tools.”
Liam Coughlin
Software Engineer
Sidekick Interactive
FLO-AddÉnergie
Flo-AddÉnergie
We built an app so clients can manage home charging stations and use a public charging network.
Problem
The client had an aging mobile app that no longer met the expectations of electric vehicle owners. The technology used was not adapted and limited the company in its mobile choices.
Without a modern native mobile app, it was very difficult for FLO and its customers to interact with the system.
End-customers had to use cards preloaded with cash, and managing cards and credits was tedious. Also, the registration of new customers, whether for the use of public terminals or charging stations at home, was complicated and very manual.
The tools in place were beginning to show their limits and no longer met the changing needs of electric car owners and the growth of the business.
Solution
We decided to develop a brand new tool that offers a wide range of possibilities and features. We have created a complete, intuitive and easy to use mobile tool.
We decided to start with a brand-new native application for the iOS and Android platform.
Thanks to co-creation workshops, we were able to build an efficient and effective tool that meets all the objectives of users and the company. The user path has been completely redesigned to meet the new needs of users. The goal was to ensure a simple and accessible experience.
Our development team worked in collaboration with the client’s team which was developing its backend in parallel with our development.
Alexandre Boyer-Laporte
iOS Development Lead
How Sidekick Interactive Co-creates Designs With Its Clients to Limit Development Risks
How Sidekick Interactive Co-creates Designs With Its Clients to Limit Development Risks
Sidekick Interactive is known for its exceptional ability to ideate and co-create app designs with its clients. By working hand in hand with both the client and researchers, Sidekick can generate ideas that are both feasible and innovative. This process allows for a clear understanding of the project objectives and limitations, which helps to ensure that the final product exceeds expectations and delivers results.
Here are some of the steps to extrapolate our client’s ideas so that they can be built.
1. Understanding the Project Objectives and Limitations
When it comes to designing and developing a mobile app, both the client and researchers need to understand the project objectives and limitations. This will help to ensure that everyone is on the same page and that the final product meets or exceeds expectations. Sidekick Interactive has years of experience working with clients and researchers alike, so we know how to navigate these waters effectively.
2. Brainstorming Solutions and Ideas
Sidekick Interactive recommends brainstorming solutions and ideas with the client and researchers. By exposing clients to the limits of technology, Sidekick Interactive can help to come up with creative and innovative ideas that will set your app apart from the competition.
When it comes to brainstorming solutions and ideas with clients and researchers, Sidekick Interactive recommends using a variety of techniques. Some of our favorites include:
- Brainwriting: This is where a group of people write down their ideas on paper, one at a time. This is a great way to generate a large number of ideas in a short amount of time.
- Brainstorming: This is where a group of people discusses and ideate ideas. This is a great way to come up with creative solutions.
- Mind Mapping: This is where you map out your ideas visually. This is a great way to organize your thoughts and see how different ideas are related.
3. Evaluating Technical Complexity
One of the first steps in selecting the best ideas is to evaluate their technical complexity. Sidekick Interactive takes into account factors such as development time and cost, platform compatibility, and user experience. Do some ideas also pose technical risks, such as: Is this feasible? Are the APIs available? How easy is this idea to develop? We attempt to reduce these risks by having our developers do research, talk with other development teams, and sometimes create very small POCs. This allows us to focus on the most feasible ideas and bring them to fruition. This also helps our clients understand why certain features are complex and others are not.
4. Deciding Which Ideas Make the MVP Cut
Minimum viable product (MVP) is a key concept in software development, and it’s key to attempt to reduce products to their smallest possible footprint to test them and get feedback. Sidekick Interactive works with clients and researchers to decide which ideas make the MVP cut. This allows us to focus on delivering tangible results as quickly as possible.
5. Thinking of the Conceptual User Experience
Even before any design or development work begins, Sidekick Interactive starts thinking about the conceptual user experience. We want to ensure that we are meeting our clients’ and researchers’ expectations from day one. And by doing so, we can avoid costly changes down the road. We do this by thinking about our users and how they will use the app, and what their goals are, and we use many concepts of “design-thinking”. We also love to include real users throughout all of these phases.
6. Designing a Tangible User Experience
Once we have a good understanding of the project objectives and limitations, Sidekick Interactive starts designing a tangible user experience. This includes creating user interfaces and mock-ups, and being as iterative as possible with our clients. We want our designers to have a great feel for what the client is looking for, so that they can proactively start designing all pages of the solutions.
7. Creating a Fully Clickable, High-Fidelity Prototype
8. Getting Feedback From Users
After the prototype is created, Sidekick Interactive gets feedback from users. This helps us to fine-tune the app and make sure that it is user-friendly. We also use this feedback to make changes to the design, if necessary.
9. Conclusion
Sidekick Interactive has a process in place that helps to avoid delivering an app that is not what the client was expecting. The worst possible scenario is a developer not getting feedback until final delivery. At that point, changes are very hard to do and take a long time and cost. Our experience of co-creating projects and getting continual feedback from the client means we can reduce the chances of this happening. We also have a focus on designing a tangible user experience, which helps us get feedback from users early on in the process. This feedback loop ensures that we are constantly refining our designs, and this is the only way to produce high-quality work that meets the client’s expectations.
The Benefits of Using 3D-Scanning for Manufacturers
The Benefits of Using 3D-Scanning for Manufacturers
As the name suggests, 3D scanning is the process of collecting data on the three-dimensional shape of an object. This data can be used to create a digital model of the object, which can then be used for a variety of purposes such as 3D printing, product design, and even measurements to produce custom apparel, orthotics, and sports equipment manufacturers.
1. What is 3D Scanning
3D scanning is the process of collecting data on the three-dimensional shape of an object. This data can be used to create a digital model of the object, which can then be used for a variety of purposes such as 3D printing, product design, and even measurements to produce custom
2. How Does 3D Scanning Work
3D scanning is a process that uses lasers and sensors to create a three-dimensional digital representation of an object. This data can then be used for a variety of purposes such as 3D printing, product design, and even measurements to produce custom apparel, orthotics, and sports equipment manufacturers.
3. The Benefits of Using 3D Scanning
There are many benefits of using 3D scanning for manufacturers. Perhaps the most obvious benefit is that it can save a lot of time and money. For example, if a manufacturer wants to create a new product, they can use 3D scanning to quickly and easily create a digital model of the product. This saves them from having to create a physical prototype, which can be costly and time-consuming.
Another benefit of using 3D scanning is that it can help to improve the accuracy of measurements. When measuring objects by hand, there is always the potential for human error. However, when using 3D scanning, the measurements are taken by a machine, which means that they are much more accurate. This is particularly important for manufacturers who need to produce items to very precise specifications.
Finally, using 3D scanning can also help to speed up the production process. When all of the data for a product is collected upfront, it can be sent directly to the 3D printer, meaning that the product can be made much faster than if traditional methods were used.
3D scanning is a powerful tool that can offer significant benefits for manufacturers. It can save time and money, improve accuracy, and speed up production times. If you are a manufacturer, then it is definitely worth considering using 3D scanning for your business.
4. Applications of 3D Scanning
3D scanning can be used for a variety of purposes, such as creating digital models of objects, 3D printing, product design, and even measurements to produce custom apparel, orthotics, and sports equipment manufacturers.
Orthotics and 3D-Scans
3D scanning can be used to create custom-fitted orthotics. By scanning the feet, a digital model can be created which can then be used to produce orthotics that fit the specific shape of the feet. This is beneficial as it means that the orthotics will be more comfortable to wear and will provide better support. And feet are only the tip of the iceberg when it comes to measuring the body for custom-fitted orthotics and other products.
Eye-Frames and 3D-Scans
One of the most popular applications for 3D scanning is creating custom-fitted eye frames. This process begins with a standard eye exam to obtain an accurate prescription. From there, a 3D scan is taken of the patient’s face to create a digital model. This model is then used to create a custom-fit pair of glasses.
Eye-Frames and Sports Apparel
Another application for 3D scanning is creating custom sports apparel. Using 3D scanning, manufacturers can quickly and easily create a digital model of an athlete’s body. This data can then be used to produce custom-fit clothing that is much more comfortable and effective than off-the-rack items.
5. Advantages of Using 3d Scanning Over Traditional Methods
There are several advantages to using 3D scanning over traditional methods. Perhaps the most obvious benefit is that it is much faster. With 3D scanning, all of the data for a product can be collected upfront, which means that the product can be made much faster than if traditional methods were used.
Another advantage of 3D scanning is that it is more accurate. When measuring objects by hand, there is always the potential for human error. However, when using 3D scanning, the measurements are taken by a machine, which means that they are much more accurate. This is particularly important for manufacturers who need to produce items to very precise specifications.
Finally, using 3D scanning can also help to speed up the production process. When all of the data for a product is collected upfront, it can be sent directly to the 3D printer, meaning that the product can be made much faster than if traditional methods were used.
6. Why an App Supercharges your 3D Scanning
Using 3D scanning apps can supercharge your experience when using 3D scanning technology. By providing a simple user interface, an app makes it easy to get started with 3D scanning. And by providing feedback as you are creating the scan, the app helps you to ensure that the scan is accurate. This combination of easy use and accuracy makes an app a powerful tool for anyone looking to integrate 3D scanning technology into their workflow.
Conclusion
3D scanning is a powerful tool that can offer significant benefits for manufacturers. It is fast, accurate, and can speed up production times. If you are a manufacturer, then it is definitely worth considering using 3D scanning for your business. And if you want to get the most out of your 3D scanning experience, then be sure to create a custom mobile app. With its simple user interface and accuracy-enhancing feedback, an app can supercharge your 3D scanning experience.
Sidekick Interactive – Montreal-Based App Developer Focused on 3D-Scanning Tech
Sidekick Interactive is a leading provider of 3D scanning native mobile app development services. We have years of experience in creating custom mobile apps that make the most of 3D scanning technology. Our team of experts can help you to create a mobile app that is tailored to your needs and that takes advantage of the full potential of 3D scanning technology.
If you are interested in learning more about our 3D scanning native mobile app development services, please contact us today. We would be happy to discuss your project with you and answer any questions you may have.
The Best Type of 3D-Scanner
The Best Type of 3D-Scanner
There are many different types of 3D scanners on the market today, each with its strengths and weaknesses. In this article, we’ll go over the main types of 3D-Scanning technologies you might want to evaluate for your mobile app 3D-Scanning project.
1) What are the Different Types of 3D Scanners?
Structure Sensor (and other Laser Scanners)
There are a few different types of mobile 3D scanners, such as the Structure Sensor. The Structure Sensor is one of the most popular mobile 3D scanners on the market. It is used by many people to scan objects and environments in three dimensions. The Structure Sensor uses a time-of-flight laser rangefinder to measure the distance from the sensor to points on an object or surface. It then uses this information to create a 3D model of the object or surface.
The Structure Sensor SDK is a mobile app development kit that allows you to create mobile apps that use the Structure Sensor. The SDK includes a library of mobile apps, as well as the tools and documentation necessary to develop your mobile app. Because of this, Structure Sensor is a developer favorite amongst portable laser scanners.
Lidar Sensor
Another type of mobile 3D scanner is the Lidar sensor. Lidar is an acronym for Light Detection and Ranging. Lidar sensors measure the distance from the sensor to points on an object or surface by measuring the time it takes for a laser pulse to travel from the sensor to the point and back again. This information is then used to create a 3D model of the object or surface. iPhone 12 now features a Lidar sensor and can be used without the need for an external device like Structure Sensor. However, interpreting 3D models and mesh is more complex than with the Structure Sensor SDK.
TrueDepth Camera
The TrueDepth Camera is a mobile 3D scanner that is built into the iPhone X and later. The TrueDepth Camera uses infrared light to measure the distance from the sensor to points on an object or surface. It then uses this information to create a 3D model of the object or surface. Because the TrueDepth Camera is built into the iPhone, it is very easy to use. However, it has a limited range and cannot scan large objects or surfaces. It also is built into the front-facing camera, making it hard to scan objects and get visual feedback as to the scanning advancements.
2) What are the Best Mobile 3D Scanners?
The best mobile 3D scanner depends on your needs. If you need to scan large objects or surfaces, you will need a mobile 3D scanner with a large range, such as the Structure Sensor. If you need to scan small objects or surfaces, you can use a mobile 3D scanner with a smaller range, such as the TrueDepth Camera. If you are looking for a high level of accuracy, to print custom manufacturing pieces, for example, the precision of the above scanners might not be sufficient.
We typically suggest the above sensors for applications that are comfortable with a 1-2% lack of accuracy. Typical applications would be measuring body parts (which change throughout the day) and some commercial applications that don’t require high-precision (i.e. scanning a room to measure the surface area of walls).
Price is an important consideration for anyone looking to purchase a 3D scanner. However, it is important to remember that cheaper scanners may not always be the best value for your money. In general, you should expect to pay more for a scanner that offers higher accuracy and greater compatibility with different operating systems.
Accuracy is particularly important if you intend to use your scanner for medical purposes. Body parts can vary significantly in size and shape, and your scanner must be able to capture these differences accurately. If you are only going to be using your scanner for general purposes, then the accuracy may not be as big of a concern.
Finally, compatibility with different operating systems is something you will need to consider if you want to be able to use your scanner with a variety of devices. Some scanners are only compatible with Windows, while others can also be used with Macs or Linux computers. Make sure you choose a scanner that can be used with the devices you already have or plan on using in the future.
3) What are the Advantages of Each?
What are the Benefits of Using the Structure Sensor?
The Structure Sensor has many benefits, including its portability, its ease of use, and its accuracy. mobile 3D scanners like the Structure Sensor are very portable, so they can be used in a variety of settings, such as in a home or office. They are also easy to use, so even people who are not familiar with 3D scanning technology can quickly learn how to use them. For developers, Structure Sensor has an easy-to-use SDK, which makes it much easier to develop mobile apps that use the sensor and interpret 3D meshes.
What are the Benefits of Using the Lidar Sensor?
The Lidar sensor is built into the iPhone, so there is no need for additional hardware. It is also very accurate, so it can be used to create high-quality 3D models.
What are the Benefits of Using the TrueDepth Camera?
The TrueDepth Camera is also built into the iPhone, so there is no need for additional hardware. Additionally, it is very easy to use, so even people who are not familiar with 3D scanning technology can quickly learn how to use it, for example, anyone who has played with animated emojis has been using TrueDepth Camera.
4) What are the Disadvantages of Each?
What are the Disadvantages of the Structure Sensor?
The disadvantages of the Structure Sensor include its cost, its supply chain limitations, and the fact that it is an external hardware device. The Structure Sensor is a mobile 3D scanner that must be attached to an iPhone/iPad to work. This means that you will most likely have to supply Structure Sensors to your clients/partners.
What are the Disadvantages of the Lidar Sensor?
The Lidar sensor is only available on the iPhone 12 Pro and the iPad Pro (2020), so if you have an older device, you will not be able to use this mobile 3D scanner. Because there isn’t an intuitive SDK available for download, creating mobile apps that utilize the sensor might be difficult. Finally, using the Lidar sensor to create 3D models and other similar results entails a higher level of technical expertise, making it less developer-friendly than some of the other mobile 3D scanners on the market.
What are the Disadvantages of Using the TrueDepth Camera?
The main disadvantage of using the TrueDepth Camera is that it is only available on the iPhone X and newer devices. This means that if you have an older device, you will not be able to use this mobile 3D scanner. Additionally, the TrueDepth Camera does not have an easy-to-use SDK, so it can be difficult to develop mobile apps that use the sensor. Finally, the TrueDepth Camera requires more programming to get 3D meshes and similar results, so it is not as developer-friendly as some of the other mobile 3D scanners on the market. The TrueDepth Camera is also front facing, so it is ideal for scanning your face, but for most other applications, it is much trickier to use as the camera and screen are on the same side, and the person scanning will not have visual feedback as to their scan.
5) What’s the Best First Step to Select a Developer to Create an App to go With Your Scanner
When you’re ready to develop a mobile app that uses a 3D scanner, it’s important to find a development company that understands the complexities of 3D scanning. There are many different types of 3D scanners on the market, and each has its strengths and weaknesses. It’s important to find a development company that is familiar with the type of 3D scanner you’re using so that they can create an app that takes advantage of its strengths and works around its weaknesses. Additionally, it’s important to find a development company that has experience developing mobile apps that use 3D scanners. This way, they will be able to avoid common pitfalls and create an app that is easy to use and provides a great user experience.
Sidekick Interactive – Creating Native Mobile Apps with 3D-Scanners for the Past 11 Years
Sidekick Interactive is a mobile app development company that specializes in creating native mobile apps with 3D scanners. They have over 11 years of experience in the industry and have developed mobile apps for some of the world’s leading brands, including HP, ABB, and Sigvaris. Sidekick Interactive has a team of experienced developers who are familiar with all the different types of 3D scanners on the market and can create an app that takes advantage of its strengths and works around its weaknesses. Additionally, Sidekick Interactive has a team of designers who specialize in creating user-friendly mobile apps with a great user experience. If you’re looking for a mobile app development company that can create an app to go with your 3D scanner, Sidekick Interactive is a great option.