3D video software the next big thing?

Computer Science

A University of Adelaide researcher who has developed innovative software to create 3D models from video is one of the finalists in an international competition to find "the next big thing".

Professor Anton van den Hengel from the University's School of Computer Science is the brains behind new technology that allows users to quickly extract accurate three-dimensional models from video.

The software, called VideoTrace, has been selected for an exhibition this month at the Melbourne Museum, showcasing leading-edge innovations from Australia and overseas that have the potential to become the hottest new trend among consumers.

The annual International Next Big Thing Award is run by Innovic, a not-for-profit organisation assisting more than 1800 innovators each year, helping to turn new ideas, inventions and technology into viable products and new businesses.

Professor van den Hengel has led a team of researchers at the University's Australian Centre for Visual Technologies in developing the world-first software.

The software has widespread applications for the defence, film, architecture and resources industries, and is presently being trialled by several key market players including Google, Sony Pictures and Autodesk Media & Entertainment.

The technology would enable people to generate a model of their house for Google Earth or a model of their car for video games such as Grand Theft Auto or Unreal Tournament.

Professor van den Hengel said the same software would allow property developers and architects to model a building in order to visualise the impact of its construction, where the shadows will fall and how it sits with adjacent buildings.

VideoTrace is licensed to Punchcard Visual Technologies (www.punchcard.com.au), a University spinout company that is developing the software for public release.

The Chief Executive Officer of Innovic, Joss Evans, said previous competition winners had gone on to reap enormous success in Australia and globally, including establishing more than 20 franchise operations, obtaining $7.6 million in finance, exporting to more than 42 countries and generating sales exceeding A$119 million a year.

More than 300 entries were received for the 2009 International Next Big Thing Award, with $60,000 in cash and prizes up for grabs. Last year, more than 76,000 people viewed the exhibits.

The winners will be announced in Melbourne on 2 July. The exhibition runs until 12 July and online voting is available at: www.nextbigthingaward.com

Story by Candy Gibson