In the world of Real-Time Location Systems (RTLS), precision is key. Ultra-Wideband (UWB) technology provides sub-meter position accuracy for tracking assets, personnel, and equipment. However, raw XYZ positional data is difficult to interpret on its own.

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To turn complex spatial data into operational insight, visualization is essential. This is where the CUWB Viewer comes in. By providing real-time, interactive 3D rendering of  CDP position output, the CUWB Viewer bridges the gap between hardware tracking and spatial awareness.

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Why 3D Visualization Matters in RTLS

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While 2D floor plans can display ground coordinates, real-world environments operate in three dimensions. Anchor placement across high ceilings and tags worn at varying heights require an accurate 3D view to visualize positioning properly.

• Depth & Elevation Perception: 3D grids allow operators to view exact heights and clearances across multi-level facilities, high-rack warehouses, or dynamic industrial work zones.
• Enhanced Spatial Diagnostics: Identifying anchor coverage, synchronization, and connectivity becomes drastically easier when visualizing the environment in full 3D perspective.
• Real-World Context: Overlaying tag locations onto realistic 3D CAD models or floor plans transforms point data into a digital twin of the physical operation.

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Key Capabilities of the CUWB Viewer

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The CUWB Viewer is packed with feature-rich tools designed for seamless navigation and customization of the environment all while tracking CUWB devices in the real-world.

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1. Dynamic Camera & Grid Navigation

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The Viewer features flexible camera controls allowing panning, rotating, and zooming via mouse, keyboard shortcuts, or a dedicated camera gizmo. Users can align views precisely along X, Y, or Z axes with a single click, or instantly switch between customized preset camera positions using hotkeys.

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2. Live Device Tracking & Historical Paths

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Visualize Anchor positions and track tags in real time with the following features:

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• Custom device models, display colors, and scale.
• Adjustable position smoothing.
• Tag trails (historical paths) to visualize motion over time.
• Detailed panels showing real-time packet counts, average position, standard deviation, and anchor synchronization.

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3. Custom 3D Environments & Digital Twins

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Instead of tracking tags in an empty digital void, the CUWB Viewer lets users build an environment that matches their facility:

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• Floor Plan Overlays: Easily import PNG floor images and scale them to match physical room boundaries.
• Built-in Geometric Primitives: Insert customizable 3D boxes, cylinders, and cones to represent walls, machinery, or restricted zones.
• Complete CAD Imports: Load full 3D CAD models of rooms or equipment to create a digital twin.

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Once the environment is set up, configurations can be saved to standalone files to easily share CUWB Viewer settings across teams.

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Getting Started with CUWB Viewer

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Getting up and running with the CUWB Viewer is simple.

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Prerequisites & Setup

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Ensure the Host PC meets basic graphics requirements; a dedicated graphics card is required for smooth rendering. Follow the CUWB Viewer Installation Instructions for a detailed guide covering Ubuntu installation and setup. Plus, be on the lookout for our upcoming Windows port!

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Video Tutorial: CUWB Viewer Installation & Overview

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Watch this step-by-step video guide walking through the direct download installation method, network setup, device customization, and 3D environment modeling:

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🎥 Watch the Guide:

Installing and Using the CUWB Viewer (Learn how to install dependencies via apt, launch cuwb-viewer, discover active CUWB networks, and build custom 3D walls and floors).

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Conclusion

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A high-accuracy UWB system is only as good as the insights it delivers. By pairing Ciholas' advanced RTLS hardware with the 3D visualization of the CUWB Viewer, operations teams can effortlessly monitor assets in real time!

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To explore the software documentation and learn more about deploying ultra-wideband location tracking in your facility, visit the official documentation at cuwb.io.

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