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Updated: Jul 31, 2026

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Combining Augmented Reality and 3D Printing to Display Patient Models on a Smartphone
Published on: January 2, 2020
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Doing more with less: Realistic stereoscopic three-dimensional anatomical modeling from smartphone photogrammetry
Alex Morichon1, Guillaume Dannhoff1,2, Laurent Barantin1
1UMR 1253, iBrain, Université de Tours, Inserm, Tours, France.
Anatomical Sciences Education
|March 15, 2024
Summary
This study presents an affordable 3D photogrammetry method using smartphones to create detailed anatomical models. The technique enhances anatomical education by providing realistic 3D visualizations with stereoscopic depth perception.
Area of Science:
- Anatomical Education
- 3D Modeling
- Photogrammetry
Background:
- Traditional anatomy teaching methods struggle with 3D concepts.
- Virtual reality (VR) and 3D models are effective but costly.
- Standard 3D models lack immersion and stereoscopic vision.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop an affordable method for creating photorealistic 3D anatomical models.
- To assess the feasibility of smartphone-based 360° photogrammetry for anatomical visualization.
- To evaluate the effectiveness of stereoscopic display in enhancing depth perception.
Main Methods:
- Utilized smartphone-based 360° photogrammetry and virtual camera recording.
- Employed stereoscopic display techniques (anaglyph or side-by-side).
- Tested the method on diverse specimens: osteological, soft organ, neuroanatomical, dissection, and 3D-printed phantom.
Main Results:
- Achieved complete 3D models with high detail and realistic textures (approx. 1mm mesh, 0.2mm texture resolution).
- Demonstrated feasibility of creating stereoscopic animations for improved depth perception.
- Validated the method across various anatomical specimen types.
Conclusions:
- Smartphone-based 3D photogrammetry offers a simple, cost-effective solution for anatomical model creation.
- The developed technique provides photorealistic models with stereoscopic visualization.
- This method is ideal for enhancing anatomical education, especially in resource-limited settings.

