Mind Blowing Game Changer - The Canon Mixed Reality System

via Cannon.com

Virtual reality systems have been around for quite a few years, but Canon's Mixed Reality (MR) system takes it to a whole new level. Targeted at industrial design, the MR system allows users to view and interact with computer generated models in life scale 3D. While the demo (found here) only shows people awkwardly interacting with car parts using what looks like a plastic spider, the implications of what this tool means for architectural design is pretty incredible.

Architectural design has always been tied down to an imagined reality, where a constant awareness of scalar differences is key to interpreting what is drawn. Drawings, models, renderings all show a perceived reality that one can only grasp through imagination. The full scale implications of building can only be fully appreciated after completion. Representation is important because it assists in bridging that gap. 3D computer modeling has become integral not only as the nexus from which other representative forms are generated, but more importantly as a versatile tool to quickly preview our every design whim. With it, architecture has become quicker, bigger, and more complex.

MR technology is the first step in what I believe to be the next leap in architecture design. As processors continue to evolve in line with Moore's law, it won't be long until visualization becomes less an issue of computing power, but more about what operating framework from which design occurs. MR presents the opportunity to immerse ourselves in our visions, to look at designs through lenses previously unavailable. It allows for incredible scalar transitions. Imagine looking at an animated master plan hundreds of blocks in area on your meeting room table, playing around with buildings and roads like lego blocks. Then transitioning to standing in a room within that plan, looking out your window as CG cars stream by below, making sure your vision remains intact at all scales.

It can also be used to playout some Godzilla fantasies, if that's more up your alley.