Mark Wilson profiles a breakthrough 3-D scanning technology that may soon changed the way we catalog spaces and share objects.
Of potential use to a variety of industries, from architecture, to real estate, and entertainment, "Matterport is a 3-D scanner that has the potential to easily digitize indoor spaces. It's intended to 'work like a 3-D point and shoot camera,' and anyone walking through a room can use it to essentially film a true 3-D layout with photorealistic textures," writes Wilson.
Utilizing hardware similar to a Microsoft Kinect, Matterport's custom software is the key to unlocking the commercial potential in creating "3D models of physical objects and interior spaces quickly, easily, and automatically."
For those that salivate at the thought, Wilson notes that, "The Matterport, in some incarnation, should be available later this year for an undisclosed price."
FULL STORY: New “Point and Shoot” Camera Creates 3-D Maps, In Minutes

Planetizen Federal Action Tracker
A weekly monitor of how Trump’s orders and actions are impacting planners and planning in America.

Chicago’s Ghost Rails
Just beneath the surface of the modern city lie the remnants of its expansive early 20th-century streetcar system.

Amtrak Cutting Jobs, Funding to High-Speed Rail
The agency plans to cut 10 percent of its workforce and has confirmed it will not fund new high-speed rail projects.

Ohio Forces Data Centers to Prepay for Power
Utilities are calling on states to hold data center operators responsible for new energy demands to prevent leaving consumers on the hook for their bills.

MARTA CEO Steps Down Amid Citizenship Concerns
MARTA’s board announced Thursday that its chief, who is from Canada, is resigning due to questions about his immigration status.

Silicon Valley ‘Bike Superhighway’ Awarded $14M State Grant
A Caltrans grant brings the 10-mile Central Bikeway project connecting Santa Clara and East San Jose closer to fruition.
Urban Design for Planners 1: Software Tools
This six-course series explores essential urban design concepts using open source software and equips planners with the tools they need to participate fully in the urban design process.
Planning for Universal Design
Learn the tools for implementing Universal Design in planning regulations.
Caltrans
City of Fort Worth
Mpact (founded as Rail~Volution)
City of Camden Redevelopment Agency
City of Astoria
City of Portland
City of Laramie