From imagery to spatial representation
For reconstruction, a property is captured from many viewpoints. The captures must overlap sufficiently so that camera positions and shared image features can be determined. From this basis, a spatial representation is created that combines the colour, position, size, orientation and transparency of many 3D Gaussian elements — the method is called 3D Gaussian Splatting.
The original publication 3D Gaussian Splatting for Real-Time Radiance Field Rendering describes the method and provides research data and implementation details. Primary source from the research team
Why is this suitable for real spaces?
- Photorealistic reproduction of visible surfaces and lighting
- Continuous movement instead of jumps between fixed panorama points
- Fast display on suitable devices
- Capture possible with different cameras
- Easily understandable spatial context for non-specialist participants
3D tour or 360-degree tour?
With a 360-degree tour, the user views complete panoramas from predefined camera positions; moving to the next area happens via jump points. A reconstructive 3D tour, by contrast, generates additional viewpoints and enables freer movement through the captured scene.
| Criterion | Reconstructive 3D tour | 360-degree tour |
|---|---|---|
| Movement | Free within sufficiently captured areas | Switching between fixed panorama points |
| Sense of space | Continuous and spatial | Very realistic at each viewpoint |
| Capture | Many overlapping photos or video frames | Individual 360-degree captures per viewpoint |
| Processing | Reconstruction and quality control required | Connecting and linking panoramas |
| Suitable for | Spatial coordination, documentation, intensive exploration | Simple guided tours and defined stations |
| Dimensional accuracy | Not automatically survey-grade | Not automatically survey-grade |
A 360-degree tour is suitable when visitors should only see selected locations, the route is clearly defined and no free spatial movement between points is needed — for example, for small showrooms or simple presentations. A 3D tour is helpful when users should explore routes, distances and spatial relationships themselves, for example in production halls, logistics areas or on projects where different participants discuss the same building.
Capture quality is decisive
Large featureless surfaces, reflections, moving people, changing light or incompletely captured areas can complicate reconstruction — this applies to both methods. A planned capture route and direct quality control reduce gaps. For repeatable results, property size, light, capture distance and the desired level of detail are considered in advance.
Comparison with other 3D methods
Gaussian Splatting is particularly geared towards photorealistic new views. Photogrammetry, by contrast, can generate explicit surface models and textures. Laser scanning delivers precise point clouds. Which method makes sense depends on whether visual walkability, measurable geometry or a combination is required.
Limits
The representation is not automatically a reliable CAD or BIM model. Measurements may only be used once their accuracy has been verified with a suitable method. Areas that are not captured or are occluded cannot be reliably reconstructed. Data protection and plant safety must be considered as early as capture planning.
What siteviewer uses the technology for
siteviewer uses the technology to make real buildings visually and spatially understandable. The focus is on walkthrough, communication and documentation in the web browser. Scope, access and updates are adapted to the operational use case in each case.