KinectFusion: The Self-Hack That Could Change Everything

Just last month, when we covered ScanLAB’s incredible development in architectural scanning, we had a feeling the 3D modeling world was in for a breakthrough. And we were right. Where once we may have joked that Microsoft was the only company not using the Kinect to its full potential, last week’s release of the KinectFusion website and an accompanying video of the “Real-Time Dynamic 3D Surface Reconstruction and Interaction” (gasp) device have the 3D modeling world reeling:

At its most basic, the device is a moving depth camera that takes the data it records and recreates a high-quality 3D model with interactive capabilities from it. Watch as the KinectFusion scans a room and picks up all its cracks and crevices (including embossed logos!), and builds a functionally interactive, live 3D space. While the optical sensor is still nowhere near the megapixels of most of today’s high-end digital cameras, the possible applications of such a technology are endless. From body scanning to digital painting and sculpture to full-on crime scene recreation, the KinectFusion just might usher in a revolution in the way we interact with the digisphere. And can you imagine retrofitting this thing with a projector?! All I know is, videogames and performance art are about to get way cooler.

If you could get your hands on a KinectFusion, what would YOU create? Post your best ideas in the comments section below!