Ski 3D: Interactive piste map app with AR view
Date:
My Roles:
On my last ski holiday, I noticed once again how inadequately conventional piste maps depict reality.
Distorted terrain representations and incorrect distances between pistes and lifts were so obvious
that the idea for an innovative project was born: a precise piste map in 3D.
As soon as I got home, I already had a detailed 3D model of the ski area,
equipped with animated gondolas, small signs, inns and even buses,
to create an authentic experience. At first I considered
making the model accessible via a web browser, but the feedback from the community (survey with >60 participants) was clear: it has to be an app.
The app combines a variety of advanced features to maximize the skiing experience:
- Real-time Data: Stay informed with up-to-date information on facility status and weather conditions to optimally plan your ski day.
- Quick Search: An intuitive search field allows you to quickly and easily find specific slopes and lifts.
- Detailed Information: Receive comprehensive information about services in the ski area, including bus schedules and contact information for restaurants.
- Interactivity: Explore the ski area interactively. Zoom in close or view the slopes from a distance and from different angles to gain a comprehensive understanding of the topography.
- Augmented Reality (AR) View: Virtually place the slope model in front of you to get an overarching overview and visually plan your route. This feature brings the map into the real world and significantly expands your perspective.
User tests
During my thesis, I conducted a comparative user test of a paper ski map with Ski3D to evaluate usability.
The 3D view was perceived as particularly clear and detailed.
The ability to selectively retrieve information and the interactive controls were highlighted positively.
The AR functionality impressed many users with the "Wow factor" and was especially convincing due to a better overall view.
The printed ski map was perceived as familiar, but often criticized as being cluttered.
The time taken to complete tasks was similar across formats.
However, subjects subjectively felt that the process with the 3D view was more engaging.
Furthermore, the test subjects rated the "fun factor" of the three formats – printed ski map, 3D view, and AR view – on a scale from 1 (no fun) to 5 (a lot of fun).
The printed ski map (2.3) was seen as functional but not very entertaining, the 3D view (4.3) as interactive and appealing, while the AR mode (4.8) with its "Wow factor" generated the highest excitement.