Toolbox on New Emerging Technologies
About
The Toolbox on New Emerging Technologies is a collection of software applications, platform options, and workflow examples for Virtual Reality (VR), Augmented Reality (AR), and 3D modelling.
It supports users at different levels—from beginners to advanced—across various disciplines. The toolbox focuses on freeware, open-source tools, and online services that do not require subscriptions. These tools allow users to explore their capabilities and export results as text, images, or 3D geometry files.
The toolbox is provided as an easy-to-use and extendable spreadsheet (Excel/CSV). It allows users to filter and refine software choices based on key characteristics such as operating environments, supported file formats, and open-source availability. This structure also supports the development of interactive workflow solutions, enabling users to design and test their own processes.
How it works
A color-coded system guides tool selection:
- Blue – main 3D platforms used as a starting point
- Orange – purpose-built tools for specific tasks
- Yellow – file formats used to assess compatibility
Users can begin with a main platform and evaluate its strengths, such as plugin availability. If a feature is missing, a specialised tool can be added. Compatibility between tools is determined through supported import and export formats, helping to build consistent workflows.
File formats
To maintain visual integrity across AR/VR and 3D workflows, it is important to use formats that preserve geometry, materials, and detail.
- GLB is recommended for its efficient and comprehensive data support
- OBJ and FBX remain reliable alternatives, especially for visualisation workflows
Example workflow
Workflows can also start from 2D input, such as a PNG image. In this case:
- A hardware-accelerated monocular depth estimator generates depth data
- The result is imported into a 3D platform
- A spatial scene is reconstructed using colour and depth information
The listed tools, links, and selection logic are based on practical professional use. The toolbox also includes summaries of key advantages and limitations, supporting informed decision-making.
