Prerequisites
Before you begin, ensure your device supports AR functionality:
- iOS devices: iPhone 6s or newer, iPad (5th generation) or newer
- Android devices: Must support ARCore (most devices from 2018 onwards)
Step 1: Download the BimStore App
For iPhone/iPad Users:
- Open the App Store on your device
- Tap the search bar and type "BimStore"
- Locate the official BimStore app in the results
- Tap Get or Install to download
- Wait for the installation to complete
For Android Users:
- Open Google Play Store on your device
- Tap the search bar and type "BimStore"
- Select the official BimStore app from the results
- Tap Install to download
- Wait for the installation to complete
Step 2: Set Up Your Account
- Launch the app by tapping the BimStore icon on your home screen
- Sign in using your existing BimStore account credentials
- New user? Tap Sign Up to create a free account
- Follow the registration prompts to complete your profile
Step 3: Find and Select a FireSilx Product
- Search for products: Use the search bar at the top of the app
- Type "FireSilx" and tap the search button
- Browse the results to find the FireSilx product you want to visualise
- Tap on your chosen product to open its detailed product page
- Review the product information including specifications and features
Step 4: Launch Augmented Reality Mode
- Locate the AR button: Look for "Place in Augmented Reality" or "View in AR" on the product page
- Tap the AR button to activate the camera view
- Grant camera permissions if prompted by your device
- Wait for the AR interface to load - this may take a few seconds
Step 5: Place and Interact with Your 3D Model
Initial Placement:
- Point your device at a flat, well-lit surface (floor, table, or desk work best)
- Move your camera slowly in a scanning motion to help the app detect the surface
- Watch for visual indicators that show when a surface is detected
- Tap to place the 3D model when the surface is properly recognised
Interacting with the Model:
- Reposition: Touch and drag the model to move it around the surface
- Rotate: Use two fingers to rotate the model to your desired angle
- Scale: Pinch to zoom in/out and resize the model
- Walk around: Move your device to view the model from different angles
- Take screenshots: Use your device's screenshot function to capture the AR view
Tips for the Best AR Experience
Optimal Environment:
- Lighting: Use bright, even lighting - avoid direct sunlight or very dim conditions
- Surface: Choose flat, non-reflective surfaces with visible texture or patterns
- Space: Ensure you have enough room to move around and view the model from multiple angles
Device Handling:
- Keep steady: Hold your device firmly and move slowly during initial surface detection
- Clean lens: Wipe your camera lens clean before starting
- Battery: Ensure your device has sufficient battery life as AR can be power-intensive
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Surface Detection Problems
- Improve lighting: Move to a brighter area or turn on additional lights
- Clean camera lens: Remove any smudges or debris from your camera
- Change surfaces: Try a different surface with more texture or visual details
- Avoid reflective surfaces: Glass, mirrors, and polished surfaces can interfere with detection
AR Model Issues
- Model won't appear: Ensure proper surface detection before attempting to place
- Model appears distorted: Try re-scanning the surface and placing the model again
- Model disappears: This can happen if lighting changes dramatically or if you move too far from the original placement area
Getting More Help
If you continue to experience issues:
- Check the BimStore website for additional support resources
- Contact BimStore customer support through the app
- Ensure your device meets the minimum AR requirements
- Consider trying the feature on a different compatible device