What is 360-degree Projection Mapping and how is it useful?

Amazing things can happen everywhere! There are those who feel that we have all had to stay home for far too long this year, but don’t worry. These amazing things are not far away. One guaranteed source of amazement is 360 Mapping. If you haven’t seen it yet, here is an explanation of what 360 degree projection mapping is and how it is useful to anyone, from special event-goers to educators, to advertisers. It is useful, and used, in all sectors.

360-degree projection mapping is an immersive visual art form in which a dynamic 360 degree real-time rendered scene is mapped with projections onto three-dimensional physical objects. In other words, with the help of projection mapping, any 3D shape or surface can become an interactive display. The experiences created may not be real, but they will never be forgotten. With this cutting-edge technology, there is nothing that cannot be done.

360 degree photography and website content is becoming common with advertisers and brands, but 360 mapping is more than that. It is truly an immersive experience that puts the viewers in the scene. It is done with a combination of video cameras, projectors, and software that makes it all happen.

Previously, video mapping could put video content onto to any flat surface, such as a wall. 360 spherical mapping creates amazing video content, and then it puts that content anywhere. Imagine being able to take any 3D surface and completely transform that surface to give viewers the image of something else! It isn’t easy, though. Projection mapping requires careful attention to detail and a lot of software! Any object becomes a surface to project on, and the surface becomes the reality, completely transformed into a total immersive video screen.

This combination of software and video projection is not inexpensive by any means. However, 360 mapping can be used for any purpose, from providing guests at a special event with a truly memorable experience to creating onstage advertising, to bringing photography to life, to presenting holographic displays.

The uses for this tech can go beyond entertainment and advertising. It can be used to train medical professionals, or to help work through problem situations. With 360 degree projection mapping, anything can come to life, and it absolutely is just like being there. Immersive experiences are useful for peace and calm and relaxation as well. As technology moves forward, festivals, theme parks, concerts, and other big events will be bringing in 360 projection, if it isn’t there already.

Some examples of projects that have been done with 360 projection mapping include providing exciting ways to showcase new products, or to witness the completion of a project. Attend a trade show or in another country, or give fans a concert experience that never ends. Let statues or historical figures tell their own story—it really is just like being there. Be anywhere in the world without leaving your city!