Design4real VR AR Agency

Gaussian Splatting -
Revolutionary technology for realism in VR

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Gaussian splatting is a highly innovative technology that has a significant impact on the creation of realistic virtual worlds. The main focus here is on the question of how real objects and environments can be efficiently transferred into virtual scenes without sacrificing detail and performance. In recent years, the team at Design4real, an agency specializing in XR in Munich, has already implemented numerous virtual reality projects using modern 3D processes. But Gaussian Splatting seems to set a completely new standard: fast, flexible and with impressive realism.

Gaussian splatting also ensures that complex lighting effects, reflections and even transparent materials can be experienced in VR in as much detail as possible. This is a decisive step forward, as the methods commonly used to date, such as polygon models or NeRFs (Neural Radiance Fields), can deliver excellent results, but are often very computationally intensive and time-consuming. In this blog post, we look at the workings, benefits and limitations of this emerging rendering technology and show how it is shaping the future of virtual reality.

 

Technical background and mode of operation

What is Gaussian splatting?

 

Gaussian splatting is a relatively new technique in the field of 3D visualization that has quickly caused quite a stir in the VR and AR community. Unlike traditional methods, which usually use polygons or complex neural networks, Gaussian splatting uses countless 3D Gaussian functions - so-called "splats" - to reconstruct scenes. In addition to their position, these splats also have attributes such as color, transparency, shape and size.

 

By arranging millions of these splats in virtual space, a volumetric image of reality is created. With Gaussian splatting, developers and artists can therefore quickly create highly realistic environments, which is particularly important for virtual reality applications. Anyone who has ever traveled in VR knows how crucial the quality and credibility of the environment is. The more realistic, the stronger the feeling of immersion.



However, the potential of Gaussian splatting does not end with static representations. Various researchers and companies are working on dynamic components that even make changes in space or moving objects possible. This is precisely where Design4real sees enormous potential: because if it is possible to calculate a scene not only photorealistically but also in real time, completely new areas of application open up in the metaverse, in training simulations or in interactive storytelling.

 

How Gaussian splatting works

Recording and modeling:
Gaussian splatting starts with the acquisition of image material. As a rule, several photos or video recordings of an object or scene are taken from different perspectives. These images serve as the basis for determining the spatial position of each pixel. Similar to photogrammetry, this creates a rough 3D point cloud.



As soon as this point cloud is available, each individual point is converted into a so-called "splatter" or a 3D Gaussian function. This step distinguishes Gaussian splatting significantly from other techniques. Instead of creating a polygonal mesh or performing complicated NeRF calculations, small, overlapping "clouds" are formed from points. The result is a visual framework of the scene that already conveys an impression of depth and structure.

 

Optimization and rendering:
The conversion is followed by an optimization phase, which is essential for the final display quality. Here, the splats are rendered in a differential process and compared with the original images. If there are discrepancies between the rendered image and the real photo, the parameters of each splat (e.g. position, shape, color) are adjusted until the scene corresponds as closely as possible to the original material.

 

This iterative process can be simplified as "trial and error", in which each run improves the model. Gaussian splatting often proves to be efficient here because the splats can be flexibly adapted and time-consuming mesh calculations are not required. In addition, practice has shown that Gaussian splatting can handle reflective or transparent surfaces relatively well.

 

These properties make Gaussian splatting not only an attractive option for game development, but also for interactive VR projects where the most realistic scenes possible are required. Further insights into common VR technologies and processes can be found, for example, in our Blogpost about VR product visualization here on the Design4real website.

 

Applications, limits and outlook

Advantages and possible applications

 

High realism and real-time rendering:
Gaussian splatting offers an excellent combination of impressive realism and high performance in virtual reality environments. Unlike conventional polygon-based 3D models, which can quickly become very large, the data volume with Gaussian splatting remains moderate. This is particularly important for VR glasses, whose computing resources are limited.

Gaussian splatting also ensures a credible representation of reflective and transparent materials, as the splats are already volumetric. In an interactive VR scenario, this means that users can move freely and still receive stable, photorealistic impressions from every angle.

 

Dynamic scenes and interactivity:
Another plus point: Gaussian splatting can handle dynamic scenarios relatively easily. If objects move or lighting conditions change, it is not necessary to initiate extensive recalculations for the entire model. Instead, individual splats or sub-areas can be adjusted.



Gaussian splatting can show its strengths in projects where rapid updating is required - such as interactive trade fair stands in VR or training simulations with movements. Design4real has already worked on projects that required a combination of real-time interaction and a high level of detail. The technology has proven to be particularly promising there.

 

Wide range of applications:
There is no doubt that Gaussian splatting is not only interesting for classic VR entertainment. The following fields of application are already benefiting from the new technology:

 

    • Education and training: Whether in healthcare or aviation - realistic simulations have been proven to increase the learning effect. Gaussian splatting can be used to quickly create "good" digital twins that are used in VR safety and training programs.



    • Architecture and construction: For virtual inspections of buildings, it is immensely helpful to visualize construction sites or designs in high quality. Gaussian splatting can save time and money here.



    • Cultural heritage and tourism: Historical sites or museums can be digitized to make them accessible in VR. The realism increases the fascination and is suitable for virtual tours.



  • Game Development: Thanks to Unity and Unreal plug-ins, Gaussian splatting is already integrated into some game projects. This allows developers to display large scenes in high detail without overloading the system.



If you would like to find out more about the use of AR and VR in different industries, we recommend our Guide to immersive technologies.

Limits and future prospects

Disadvantages and technical challenges:
Despite the numerous advantages, Gaussian splatting still reaches its limits in some projects. For example, fine details can blur in splats or create "ghostly" artifacts. In addition, the video RAM (VRAM) requirement can be high, especially if very large and complex scenes are to be rendered in real time.

 

The artistic editing of splats is also less intuitive than with classic polygon modeling. If you want to edit a scene down to the smallest detail, you still need specialized knowledge and often specially developed tools. This can be an obstacle in industries such as film or high-end games when you need precise control over every element.



AdvantagesDisadvantages
Realistic representationHigh VRAM consumption
Efficient real-time renderingLoss of detail with very fine structures
Good handling of reflections & transparencyLess intuitive artistic control
Smaller data volumes than polygon modelsPartly still experimental tools
Dynamic scenes easier to implementCompatibility problems with old pipelines
Efficient capture of HD imagesPotential data protection and regulatory risks



Further development and research:
Interest in Gaussian splatting continues to grow in the research community. Projects like SplaTAM show how this technology can be combined with RGB-D SLAM to develop precise camera tracking and 3D reconstruction methods. In addition, companies such as Meta are working on advanced avatar systems that use Gaussian splatting to make body movements and facial animations even more realistic.

 

Another exciting area is the integration of artificial intelligence. AI-controlled tools that create a basic structure with minimal input (e.g. a single image), which is then refined using Gaussian splatting, are conceivable. This could be used in particular in rapid prototype development for VR applications or in web 3D projects.



Data protection and regulation:
However, with the increase in 3D scans of real people, places and objects, awareness of data protection issues is also on the rise. Gaussian splatting enables a detailed depiction of reality, which can cause concerns both with personal data and in protected areas. In the future, it may be necessary to introduce new standards or guidelines to protect people's privacy.



External link - Further information:
If you would like to take a closer look at the practical implementation, you can find more information on the Website of Threlte an illustrative example of Gaussian splatting with Three.js. It is easy to see how the splats are rendered and optimized in real time.



Conclusion

Gaussian splatting is undoubtedly one of the most exciting developments in virtual reality and 3D rendering. Through its unique approach of utilizing millions of 3D Gaussian functions, the technique achieves a remarkable blend of efficiency and realism. For many VR and AR projects, this means realistic scenes, fast computing times and the ability to display complex lighting effects and transparent materials.

 

However, you should also be aware of the limitations. In some cases, the high VRAM requirement is a stumbling block, and the fine-tuning of splats can be time-consuming. Nevertheless, new tools and workflows are being developed every day, making Gaussian splatting increasingly attractive for mainstream applications.

 

Future combinations with AI systems or GPU rendering optimizations are also highly interesting: they could further increase the level of detail and noticeably reduce rendering times. This opens up new horizons, especially in the development of dynamic VR environments. Whether realistic simulations, urban planning or immersive game worlds - Gaussian splatting has the potential to have a lasting impact on the entire VR sector.



Design4real is staying on the ball and is already testing various pilot projects with this exciting technology. We are convinced that Gaussian splatting could soon be the basis for making virtual reality even more effective, realistic and interactive in many areas.



clarence dadson

Let us advise you.

Are you interested in developing a virtual reality or 360° application? You may still have questions about budget and implementation. Feel free to contact me.

I am looking forward to you

Clarence Dadson CEO Design4real