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.

How to Choose the Right Beacon for Your Project in 2022

How to Choose the Right Beacon for Your Project in 2022

Mobile app development has come a long way in the last few years. With the release of new versions of Android and iOS, as well as the introduction of beacons, there are more possibilities than ever before for creating unique and innovative apps.

At Sidekick Interactive, we have been at the forefront of mobile app development since its inception, and we are constantly exploring new ways to use these technologies to create amazing user experiences.

One of these technologies are beacons, connected through Bluetooth. In this blog post, we will explore what beacons are, how to choose the right beacon for your project, and what you can do with them.

 

1. What Are Beacons and How Do They Work

Beacons are small, wireless devices that use Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) to transmit data to nearby devices, such as smartphones. They are often used for location-based applications and can be placed indoors or outdoors. When a beacon is within range of a compatible device, it can send push notifications, coupons, or other information to the user. Beacons can also be used to track the location of devices, and to collect data about customer behavior.

 

2. How to Choose the Right Beacon for Your Project

Beacons come in a variety of shapes and sizes, and with different features. When choosing a beacon for your project, it is important to consider the following factors:
 
  • Range: The range of a beacon is the maximum distance at which it can transmit data. Beacons typically have a range of up to 100 meters.
  • Battery life: The battery life of a beacon is the amount of time it can operate without being recharged. Beacons typically have a battery life of up to two years.
  • Compatibility: Not all beacons are compatible with all devices. Be sure to check that the beacon you choose is compatible with the devices you want to use it with.
  • Feature set: Beacons come with a variety of features, such as the ability to send push notifications, track location, and collect data. Choose a beacon with the features you need for your project.
  • Price:  Beacons range in price from $5 to $200. Choose a beacon that fits your budget.

 

3. What Can You Do With Beacons

Beacons can be used for a variety of applications, such as:

  • Location tracking: Beacons can be used to track the location of devices. This can be used for security purposes, or to collect data about customer behavior.
  • Data collection: Beacons can be used to collect data about customer behavior. This data can be used to improve the user experience or to create targeted marketing campaigns.

 

4. What Are the Limitations of Beacons

Beacons have several limitations, including:
 
  • Battery life: Beacons typically have a battery life of up to two years.
  • Range: Beacons typically have a range of up to 100 meters.
  • Compatibility: Not all beacons are compatible with all devices.
  • Feature set: Beacons come with a limited set of features.

Apple has placed restrictions on how beacons can be used in iOS. Beacons can only be used in apps that are actively being used, and they cannot be used to track the location of users when the app is not in use. This limitation has caused some developers to abandon beacon projects, as it is not possible to track user location without interrupting their experience. However, there are still many applications for which beacons can be useful, such as museum tours and product promotions.

Android has placed similar restrictions on beacons as iOS, but there are some differences. Beacons can only be used for notifications and location tracking when the app is in use. However, it is possible to collect data about user behavior even when the app is not in use. This data can be used to improve the user experience or to create targeted marketing campaigns.

 

5. How to Get Started With Beacons

If you are interested in using beacons for your project, there are a few things you need to do to get started:
 
  • Choose the right beacon: Be sure to choose a beacon that is compatible with the devices you want to use it with, and that has the features you need for your project.
  • Install the beacon: Follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer to install the beacon.
  • Configure the beacon: Configure the beacon to transmit the data you want it to send.
  • Activate the beacon: Activate the beacon so that it can start transmitting data.

Beacons are a powerful tool that can be used to create innovative and interactive applications. By understanding how they work, and how to choose the right beacon for your project, you can create a truly unique and engaging experience for your users.

 

6. The Future of Beacons

The future of beacons is bright. With the introduction of new technology, such as Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE), beacons are becoming more energy-efficient and have the potential to last for years without needing to be replaced. In addition, new applications for beacons are being developed all the time, and it is likely that we will see even more uses for beacons in the future.

Sidekick Interactive is a mobile app development company that specializes in creating native apps that connect to Bluetooth devices. We have a team of experienced developers who can help you turn your ideas into reality. Contact us today to learn more about our services.

Bluetooth Mesh Device Manager App

Bluetooth Mesh Device Manager

Provision and manage emergency lighting and exit signs using the new Bluetooth Mesh technology.

Problem

The client had a tool adapted to Bluetooth Mesh technology to manage emergency lighting. But they didn't have a platform that would allow its customers to use it easily.

The project began with a 3-day co-creation workshop to determine the overall project and define the user experience and interface for the mobile, tablet and web application.

The challenge of this project was to create an application capable of adapting to the Bluetooth Mesh technology implemented as well as to all the tools used by the client, worldwide.

The mobile application had to take into account the regulations of each country in which it would be deployed and adapt to the different product ranges and connectivity on each continent.

End users of the product had different profiles and responsibilities. However, they all had to be able to find what they needed quickly, on the same interface.

Mobile-app-bluetooth-mesh
Device-management-bluetooth-mesh
Bluetooth-mesh-device-management-app

Solution

We have developed an application with a clear and intuitive interface, using native functionalities of the different mobile OS to make it easy to use.

Users are already familiar with the most famous mobile operating systems (Android & iOS) through the daily use of their smartphone or tablet. That’s why we chose to keep native features so that they can feel familiar with this comprehensive tool.

We developed a mobile and web application respecting different user paths on the same interface. This way everyone – from the lighting installer to the building manager – can use the application to meet their respective objectives.

The application allows to detect the different devices thanks to Bluetooth Mesh technology, to configure them and finally to test them.

Thus, the application can alert the people responsible for the faulty lighting, specifying the nature of the problem and precisely geolocating the device.

All alerts and actions are transcribed through detailed reports generated directly from the mobile application. The tool is therefore a support platform for the management of emergency lighting and exit signals, but also ensures the correct operation of the devices and compliance with regulations through complete automated monitoring.

“Bluetooth Mesh Device Manager App is the perfect example of a revolutionary and highly complex technology, made accessible to everyone through an intuitive digital tool.”

Liam Coughlin
Software Engineer
Sidekick Interactive

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Jmap

Jmap Survey

Facilitate the follow-up of public worksites for foremen.

Problem

When it comes to public contracts, it is difficult for a foreman to ensure progress in real time, and thus make sure that the service provider is respecting the contract.

When it comes to managing public contracts, it is often difficult for the foreman to keep up with all the work that takes place in a city.

Ensuring contractors’ compliance with contracts to ensure delivery on time is a challenge. However, it is essential to exercise penalties associated with contracts if the work does not respect the deadlines.

The goal for K2 was to develop a tool to effectively monitor the progress of public contracts.

application-mobile-chantier-suivi
application-mobile-suivi-travaux
travaux-publics-application-mobile

Solution

We have developed an application for Smartphone and Tablet so that projects are accessible anywhere, by different actors, regardless of the network coverage.

The application we have developed simplifies the work of the foremen when entering data in the field.

The application allows you to view and query all map layers and works with or without a network connection.

It is also possible to create objects and forms associated with your layers, including all their components, and to use them with Jmap Survey without modification.

“The Jmap Survey application was entirely designed to answer the performance problems of the teams in the field. A digital tool is the guarantee that all the players use the same technology, the same support, in order to standardize the communication between the different services and, above all, to be much faster and more efficient in the follow-up of the construction sites.”

Gregory Cerallo
Strategist
Sidekick Interactive

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Parcourir Laval

Parcourir Laval

An interactive travel guide app for Cities looking to dynamize their activity.

Problem

The City of Laval was looking for a flexible and adapted solution for its citizens and tourists to give access to the heritage information and thematic routes of the city.

With more than 420,000 residents and 730,000 tourists a year, the city of Laval was looking for a digital solution consistent with user mobility and flexible enough to allow the city to manage content in real time.

The challenge was thus twofold: to propose an application to inform citizens of activities in the city, and to show cultural places to tourists in the form of a walking route planner solution.

Also, the solution had to be interactive so as not to fall into the trap of simply being a tourist guide frozen in digital format.

application-mobile-parcourir-laval
ville-laval-application-mobile
laval-application-mobile

Solution

We have deployed our customizable Sidekick Tourism solution for the city of Laval, including key features and a client-specific CMS to modify the content of their travel guide app in real time.

Our Sidekick Tourism solution is a customizable product that the city of Laval has been able to appropriate.

This native Android and iOS travel guide application allows the city to broadcast its own content and edit it through a dedicated content manager. The city can work as a walking route planner with several points of interest according to certain themes.

The application includes essential features that can replace the city’s printouts to provide a more immersive experience.

“Parcourir Laval is a perfect blend of history and new technologies that allows tourists to discover the attractions of the city in a different and attractive way. This type of product fits perfectly with the objectives of a smart and modern city.”

Benoit Collette
City of Laval

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INFO-Neige Montreal

INFO-neige Montreal

A game changing snow removal parking app that impacts thousands of car drivers in Montreal.

Problem

The city of Montreal organized a public hackathon to develop a mobile application to better communicate with citizens on snow removal operations in Montréal, and thus avoid towing cars.

Every year, thousands of drivers are impacted by snow storms and the snow removal operations of the city of Montreal.

In order to keep streets passable, the snow removal operations forces the city to tow many cars to make room for the snowplows. To maximize its productivity during these operations, the city wanted to develop an application to better communicate with its citizens on snow removal schedules and progress.

A hackathon was organized to propose the most appropriate application. Nearly 80 developers and development agencies accepted the challenge.

stationnement-deneigement-montreal
application-deneigement-montreal
deneigement-montreal-application-mobile

Solution

We won the hackathon by developing a simple and effective snow removal app that works with open city data and intuitive color coding. Citizens can now save targeted places to receive notifications, helping them to better plan their parking.

Our snow removal app was designed according to how a driver would use it. We wanted the application to be as uncluttered as possible for outdoor use during a snowstorm.

We therefore focused our development around simplicity of use and clarity of content. The user can directly access his current position, those previously recorded and, since the winter of 2019, report poorly cleared places.

This clean approach, keeping only essential features, allowed us to offer an efficient and very intuitive mobile application which won us 1st prize.

“A must-have in the city!”

Alexandre M.
App user

“Thanks to INFO-Neige my car is not towed anymore. Thank you!

Salim F.
App user

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Aerial

Aerial

Taking an innovative wireless home security technology and turning it into a powerful and accessible home security app.

Problem

The startup Aerial has developed a wireless home security technology that captures the activities and movements of an area, thanks to WiFi wave analysis. They wanted to make it accessible to anyone through a mobile application to serve ordinary individuals as well as professionals.

The startup Aerial has developed a wireless home security technology that captures the activities and movements of an area, thanks to WiFi wave analysis. They wanted to make it accessible to anyone through a mobile application to serve ordinary individuals as well as professionals.

The complexity of the scientific data collected was a challenge. The data was too technical for the target audience and therefore did not bring real added value.

The objective for the company was therefore twofold: on the one hand to integrate the data generated in a clear and intuitive interface, and on the other hand to make the interface easily configurable according to the user profile.

aerial-application-mobile
developpement-application-mobile-securite
securite-maison-application-mobile

Solution

We built a Home security app prototype with Aerial’s team to make sure that the solution was intuitive, easily configurable and easy to handle, all before developing the actual app.

We developed models and a prototype to confirm objectives and expectations as defined during the co-creation workshop.

The customizable interface now allows the user to configure the application based on the location they wish to monitor and connect to nearby wireless devices. The user is therefore notified in real time when an activity, for example an intrusion, is detected.

Also, thanks to the algorithms, the user can plan and schedule a calendar of events so that the system can notify them of intrusions, for example.

“We have designed an entire interface to display and set up the technology developed by Aerial. Our team was able to adapt the solution by creating a completely custom-made interface, allowing easy access and use regardless of the user.”

Alexandre Boyer-Laporte
iOS Developer
Sidekick Interactive

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Go Centre-Ville

Go Centre-ville

Go Centre-Ville is powered by our Sidekick Tourism product, deployable under 2 weeks. A travel guide app with features such a walking route planner

Problem

The city of Gatineau wanted to develop a digital tool to connect the municipality to its inhabitants. The city wanted to both facilitate the daily lives of its inhabitants, and make the city more attractive for tourists and retailers.

The city of Gatineau, the fourth largest city in the province of Quebec, wanted to dynamize numerically by developing a digital tool, in the form of a City tour app, to connect the municipality to its residents to both facilitate their daily lives and make the city more attractive for tourists and retailers.

As the city is constantly evolving, the municipality wanted to be able to modify the content of the application easily and in real time, without having to go through our services.

centre-ville-application-mobile
application-mobile-ville-gatineau
centre-ville-economie-application-mobile

Solution

We have deployed our Sidekick Tourism solution for the city of Gatineau to provide relevant content. Thanks to the CMS, we have made the city autonomous in the management of its content.

The city now has a native travel guide app that offers essential features such as offline browsing and geolocation of points of interest.

The solution also includes an online content manager accessible to the municipality and allowing simple, effective and real-time content modification.

Now the city has an interactive City tour app to highlight its shops and cultural venues to bring more dynamism to its economic downtown.

“The strength of this travel guide app is the dynamism it brings to the economy of downtown Gatineau. It’s a real everyday tool, to be aware of all the events and discounts in the heart of the city.”

Gregory Cerallo
Strategist | Co-fondateur
Sidekick Interactive

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iSmart

iSmart

Stress management app designed by doctors, developed by us.

Problem

The University Institute in Mental Health had developed a chronic stress management app. This application was too heavy and the user was lost while browsing.

Dr. Pierrich Plusquellec led a first mobile application development project to help manage chronic stress.

The purpose was clear: to create an app to help with anxiety. But the user interface was complex due to the presence of too many features.

The application did not fulfill its primary purpose. Downloads were decreasing and the application was drifting.

atelier-construction-application-mobile
atelier-developpement-application-mobile-montreal
atelier-creation-application-mobile-ismart

Solution

We have defined a new version of this stress management app. Together, we reworked the design to make it fun and interactive and thus facilitate its use.

After joint reflection, we decided to go for a new app to help with anxiety adapted to the latest technical requirements.

Step by step, we made the application intuitive and fun. We put in place an effective user experience in order to evoke the daily interest of its users.

The set of functionalities chosen makes of iSMART a complete tool to equip and assist people wishing to manage their chronic stress.

“The working day with the Sidekick team was extremely stimulating. It allowed a great freedom in the creation of ideas, extracting the expertise of each one and juggling with the methods of brainstorming. This demonstrated once again that collective intelligence always generates more results than individual expertise.”

Pierrich Plusquellec
Professor & Searcher
University of Montreal

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SpinED

SpinED

Revolutionize medical learning with a gamification app for medical students, professors and professionals.

Problem

A team of doctors was looking for a playful and interactive way to accompany medical students in the study of the spine. The SpinED team wanted to develop a learning alternative, lighter and more captivating.

The field of study of the spine, although rich and complex, offered no interactive and fun learning tool for students, researchers and professionals.

We knew what the objectives were, but the doctors did not know what digital tools were at their disposal to achieve these objectives.

application-mobile-sante-spined
Developpement-application-mobile
apprentissage-medical-application

Solution

We have developed a medical learning app prototype that includes all the features needed to study, test and progress in multiple areas of medical studies, including the spinal column.

After studying, analyzing and sorting out the different possibilities, we presented a medical learning app prototype filling the gaps in the range of existing study tools.

We designed a fun learning app for medical students and professionals based on gamification. The user has access to specific case studies, multiple choice questions and a dashboard to view his progress.

The users can learn, test themselves, identify their strengths and weaknesses and compare their results with those of other students.

“The SpinED application is all about new learning opportunities with today’s digital tools, offering interactive modules where traditional tools lack dynamism and impact. Beyond the fun aspect of the application, it remains a very technical, reliable and complete support to accompany all actors in the medical study.”

Gregory Cerallo
Strategist
Sidekick Interactive

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