3D Environment Model

A detailed three-dimensional digital representation of a physical environment, such as a building interior, that includes the geometry of walls, floors, doors, windows, and fixed objects. In accessibility and navigation research, 3D environment models serve as spatial databases that assistive systems can reference to provide blind users with information about their surroundings — identifying objects, calculating distances, and planning routes. These models can be created through manual modeling, 3D laser scanning, or photogrammetry, and can be compared against real-time sensor data to detect changes such as open doors or moved furniture. While creating detailed 3D models is time-intensive, many public buildings now have such models available, and automated modeling techniques are making the process increasingly practical.