Target Images
Before content can track to an image, that image must first be trained. In Mattercraft, you can train your image by using the in-built image trainer. An example target image might be a poster, a bottle label or product packaging.
Please note that to train an image target for tracking, you will need to install the
Augmented Reality by Zapparpackage from the dependencies tab if you have not already.
Creating a Target File
Image trackers use a special 'target file' that has been generated from the source image (.jpg or .png) you'd like to track. You can create a target image by using the option found under the Left Menu’s + (plus) icon menu.
This will launch the in-built Image Trainer, which will first allow you to select the particular image tracking type you would like to use. The options are as such:
| Image Tracking Type | Description | Example use cases |
|---|---|---|
| Flat | For flat images which will be level on all parts of the surface. | Books, posters, brochures, square or rectangular shaped packaging. |
| Curved | For curved images which will wrap around the entirety or part of a surface equally. | Drinks cans, wine bottles, jars, cylindrical shaped packaging. |
| Conical | For conical images which taper and are smaller on one side of the entirety or part of a surface. | Coffee cups, ice cream tubs, scientific flasks, cone shaped packaging. |
When you select an image tracking type (Flat, Curved or Conical), you will then be prompted to upload an image file (a regular .png or .jpg) for training; as well as provide measurements for that image which will allow Mattercraft to calibrate the image tracking.
It is critical that Curved and Conical image measurements are exact, as this will affect the stability of your target image.
When Mattercraft has successfully trained your image, it will display a notice letting you know that you can begin to track content to it. You can then close the Image Trainer window and will see your target image file (.zpt) in the Left Menu, ready to be used as the Source for an ImageTracker component.
Tracking content to an image
When your ImageTracker has an image assigned to it, you can start adding tracked content by placing components inside of the tracker.
Next article: Image Tracking Events