Augmentable and spatially manipulable 3d modeling

Abstract

Augmentable and manipulable modeling of equipment provides a three dimensional, manipulable base model image of an equipment specimen on a display system using optical base model data obtained using a computing system. Base model data collection can be user-controlled to permit changing spatial aspects of the base model image (size, perspective, orientation). User inputs concerning functions, conditions and the like can be transmitted from a model control unit to the computing system via a two-way communication link, generating augmenting data that is combined with the base model data to render augmented three dimensional models. User inputs also can be received directly by the computing system, for example using a display system touchscreen. Augmenting data received by the computing system and/or display system also can be transmitted via the communication link to the model control unit. Such implementations permit realistic simulation of the effects of a control system on a real world system, equipment, etc.