PTC is now expanding the functionality of its augmented reality platform Vuforia with a series of new announcements. These include the use of Azure Spatial Anchor Services, new 3D AR model targets, a strategic collaboration with Matterport to visualize factories, and the acquisition of TWNKLS

The Azure Spatial Anchor Services

In combination with the Microsoft HoloLens, the Vuforia Expert Capture solution presented in April can now use its location-based functions, which are made possible by Azure Spatial Anchor Services. The aim is to guide employees safely and effectively through procedures by presenting digital content at relevant locations in the physical environment. This functionality should not only improve the accuracy and speed with which employees successfully complete new or unfamiliar tasks, but also reduce training costs.

Vuforia Engine 8.3

With the launch of Vuforia Engine 8.3, PTC now claims to introduce the industry's first model-based AR engine enhanced with AI functionality. In addition to intuitive AR user interactions, the engine offers a more robust AR experience by leveraging the power of deep learning to provide advanced target recognition capabilities based on the customer's 3D CAD model. AI-powered, model-based recognition makes it possible to recognize a product or machine from difficult viewing angles, even in poor lighting conditions.

Immersive 3D technology

PTC is investing in a collaboration with Matterport, a company that provides immersive 3D technology and room capture solutions. Through the partnership, PTC can now offer the first AR solution focused on factories, plants and other spaces. The enhanced Vuforia offerings now give customers the ability to unify their factory data and visualize and interact with a digital twin of an object, space or process. The collaborative solution gives users the ability to scan their plant and turn it into a usable 3D mesh using a Matterport-compatible camera.

TWNKLS - the AR specialists

PTC recently acquired TWNKLS, a Dutch AR company that develops customized AR applications and experiences and provides AR services. The acquisition of TWNKLS is intended to accelerate PTC's AR strategy and enable customers to realize a faster time-to-value.