3D visualization is a technology that makes it possible to create realistic three-dimensional models of objects, scenes, or entire worlds. It is one of the fastest growing technologies in the world of graphics and design. With advanced computer programs and powerful graphics processors, it is possible to create photo-realistic images and animations that are almost indistinguishable from reality.

A major advantage of 3D visualization is that it allows designers and design engineers, but also artists, to visualize their ideas and concepts much easier and faster. It is now possible to model a building, landscape, or product in 3D and then view it in real time. This aids collaboration between different departments and helps customers to better understand the products or services.

Another advantage of 3D visualization is that it gives much more creative freedom. 3D tools can be used to create things or representations that would otherwise not be feasible. It is possible to model things that do not exist in reality. Or create an environment that has never been seen before. Rosenbauer made use of this application in the course of the world’s largest leading trade fair for fire and rescue services, Interschutz 2022. The electric drive solutions of the future were presented as part of the launch of Rosenbauer’s electric line-up.

In order to be able to represent the topic of e-mobility as clearly as possible, the respective drives of the RT, AT electric, PANTHER electric, and the L32A-XS electric were drafted in an elaborate process between product management, designers, marketing, and our external partner qapture. These would then be presented in a digital layer concept alongside QR codes, landing pages, and other digital measures. The goal was an interactive 3D viewer and AR applications.

However, one of the biggest challenges right at the beginning of the project was the evaluation and sorting of all the design data. A vehicle, including its interior fittings, consists of thousands of parts such as screws, plates, wheels, water tanks, engine, and so on. These are available in highly complex CAD (computer aided design) construction drawings and had to be “cleaned up” accordingly in order to really only present the things that are necessary for the representations of the e-drives.
Also, the respective representations had to be internet friendly, i.e., a relatively compact file size to allow real-time viewing. Things like the Energy Backup System (EBU), recuperation, and energy flows should also be shown in an animation.

Once this data had been compiled together with an external partner, the next step was to create a visual concept. The focus was on the animation style and the visualization points to be shown. The entire system is therefore displayed in a kind of “X-ray view.”
The focus is not on details, but on how the respective powertrain works, including volumes for a better understanding of the energy paths, among other things.

After various optimizations and feedback loops of the 3D data for the respective powertrain, the applications were also implemented in several AR applications. Users with an iOS or Android smartphone can also experience the powertrains and energy flows again directly live on the vehicle as a web application or project the respective vehicle into their living room, for example. This was to help customers who were unable to attend Interschutz, for example.

These generated 3D assets also served as a basis for further types of presentations (e.g., product videos, sales support tools, website, print, etc.).

Finally, training documents were created and the respective product roll-outs defined. At the trade fair itself, visitors were directed to the AR web application via various QR codes on the vehicles, among other things, and were able to view the 3D animation videos on screens, while the PANTHER electric had its own VIP screen that could be viewed by customers.

Overall, 3D visualization is an exciting technology that has many applications and is constantly improving. Accordingly, it is now also an important tool for Rosenbauer to be able to present not only ideas, but ready-made concepts in a realistic way. With the ever-growing possibilities of 3D visualization, there are virtually no limits to creativity.

Links to the applications

3D-Viewer L32A-XS electric: https://apps.satourday.io/rosenbauer/L32A-XS-electric/
3D-Viewer RT: https://apps.satourday.io/rosenbauer/rt
3D-Viewer AT electric: https://apps.satourday.io/rosenbauer/at-electric/

Embedding of the 3D model in the course of the digital layer and a 360-degree campaign on a landing page: www.everythingforthatmoment.com/en/new-products/at-electric/

AR-Viewer AT electric: https://apps.satourday.io/rosenbauer/at-electric/ar/
AR-Viewer L32A-XS electric: https://apps.satourday.io/rosenbauer/L32A-XS-electric/ar/
AR-Viewer RT: https://apps.satourday.io/rosenbauer/rt/ar/

Many thanks to everyone involved in this project and especially to Qapture and Mox for the fast, agile, and optimal implementation.