Explore Patagonia’s Peaks Through AR Climbing
Overview
This project creates an immersive AR experience inspired by Patagonia’s essence of adventure and environmental goals. Users interact with a 3D rock climber navigating a mountain. The experience combines cutting-edge 3D modeling and AR technology to enhance brand storytelling and customer engagement.
Goals
The goal was to create an engaging AR experience that immerses users in Patagonia's adventurous spirit. This interactive experience aimed to strengthen customer connection with Patagonia through innovative storytelling.
Skills
3D Modeling (Blender)
AR Integration (Adobe Aero)
Brand Storytelling
Adobe Ilustrator
Challenges
One major challenge was creating a low-poly 3D model that maintained visual appeal and performed smoothly in an AR environment. Since never used a 3D modeling program or an AR program before, optimizing the model for consistent quality and interactivity across different devices was important. Additionally, it was important to design the experience in a way that kept users immersed in the interactive elements while still effectively conveying Patagonia's story.
3D Software Process
Using Blender, I sculpted the rock climber in a low poly way in order to optimize the model for the AR Software. After creating the base models, I rigged the climber for dynamic motion, allowing for climbing animations. Using blender again, I created rocks to be placed where the rock climber will place his hands and feet.
AR Software Program
After preparing the 3D assets, Adobe Aero was used for the AR experience. The animation along with the low-poly model were imported into the software. The AR experience was designed to attach to a wall in a living room, as a QR code follows a Patagonia advertisement. This placement aimed to create an inviting and relatable environment for users to interact with the climber.
Conclusion
The Patagonia AR Rock Climbing Experience successfully combines low-poly 3D modeling with interactive technology to deliver an engaging brand narrative. By creating an immersive setting that resonates with users, the project highlights Patagonia’s commitment to sustainability and adventure. This innovative approach not only enhances customer engagement but also reinforces the brand’s core values in a memorable way. Overall, the experience demonstrates the potential of AR to transform how brands connect with their audiences.
