Final Testing and Refinements
As my major project moved into its final phase, I focused on one of the most critical stages in any design and development process: testing and refinement. This step allowed me to evaluate all the practical components I had created carefully, ensuring each performed smoothly, aligned with the original design intentions, and delivered a satisfying user experience.
Testing the App Design (Figma)
I started by reviewing the Figma prototype of the Wander Wheels app. Testing here focused on how the user would naturally move through the interface, particularly:
- Navigating between key sections like Conversions, My Build, Progress & Updates, and Quick Actions.
- Testing both light and dark mode versions ensured visual contrast and readability were accessible for all users.
- Evaluating the UX flow to confirm that a first-time user could easily explore the app without confusion.
The feedback I received highlighted minor layout spacing issues and small inconsistencies in button sizes, which I corrected during this phase. This review helped me ensure that the app design was clean, cohesive, and aligned with the brand guidelines I had developed earlier in the project.
Website Landing Page Testing (Figma)
Although a whole website was not initially developed due to time constraints, I later created a landing page to extend the brand’s online presence. Testing focused on visual hierarchy, responsiveness, and interactivity.
The landing page prototype, created in Figma, was reviewed for navigation fluidity and aesthetic consistency with the app.
The AR Showcase section, including a rotating customer review slider, was tested to ensure animation timing and transitions were smooth and non-distracting.
All hover states and scroll animations were assessed to confirm that visual feedback was clear and the interface remained dynamic without overwhelming the user.
This decision ultimately provided a valuable touchpoint for more traditionally-minded users who prefer browser-based exploration, complementing the mobile app’s immersive capabilities.
Testing the 3D Camper Van Models and AR Integration
Alongside the app testing, I also moved into testing the 3D camper van models for use in Adobe Aero’s AR environment. One of the bigger challenges during this phase was the unexpected discovery that my Vanspace 3d models could not be exported as GLB files for Aero, which limited their direct integration into the AR experience.
After contacting Lowri, the team manager at Vanspace 3d, I was informed that their models could only be saved in proprietary formats. This meant I had to adjust my approach and switch to using Blender-created models for AR.
I also attempted to improve my model topology by following tutorials. However, as a beginner, I found the process challenging, especially since the video I watched moved too fast to apply the corrections. Although the 3d model isn’t perfect, it serves its purpose in representing the core concept of using AR to support the camper van sales process. I plan to develop my modelling and retopology skills beyond this project.
Testing QR Codes & AR Experience
Once the model was placed in Adobe Aero, I tested:
- Whether the model loads correctly when scanned through a QR code.
- How the animation triggers are performed on various devices.
- If the model’s placement on real-world surfaces felt natural, especially when using the ground-plane anchor.
The test confirmed that the AR feature works well on mobile, despite limitations with the model’s detail. The experience still allows users to visualize the camper van directly in their environment, which is at the heart of the project’s goal.
Design Applications and Social Media Content
I also tested the Wander Wheels marketing visuals to ensure they were optimized for print and digital display. Particular attention was given to the billboard design, bus stop ad, brochure, and the Y2K-style keychain animation created in Blender.
The 3d keychain animation was especially valuable for social media content, as it adds an extra layer of personality to the brand and is perfect for promotional posts across platforms like Instagram and TikTok. I also uploaded the demonstration video to YouTube to showcase how the AR experience works in practice for users scanning the QR code.
Feedback and Further Refinements
Throughout the development of my project, I’ve regularly sought feedback from tutors and friends to ensure the outcomes aligned with my original objectives while maintaining a user-focused and technically sound design.
One particularly valuable piece of feedback came from my tutor, Yang, who suggested that I improve the topology of my 3d camper van model, mainly to avoid rendering artefacts and to make the model more efficient for AR experiences. She recommended using a software tool called Instant Meshes, which is specifically designed to simplify the retopology process for 3D models.
After installing and experimenting with Instant Meshes, I ran into a technical issue. Although my entire model displayed perfectly inside Blender, when I imported it into Instant Meshes, some parts of the model did not appear.
At this point, I am unsure whether the problem is linked to the way I exported the file from Blender (such as scale, format, or unapplied modifiers) or whether it is caused by non-manifold geometry or mesh complexity, which Instant Meshes can sometimes struggle to interpret. I am now consulting external resources and further tutorials to help resolve this issue, and I am also open to any additional advice or suggestions on how to troubleshoot it.
This experience has highlighted the importance of refining technical workflows and exploring professional tools beyond the basics of 3D modelling. I will aim to continue developing my retopology knowledge and practical skills in future projects.
Following earlier feedback from Professor Jiang regarding the topology issues in my 3D camper van model, she advised me to contact Jay for additional technical support. Upon consultation, Jay provided practical recommendations to ensure proper export settings from Blender, which could potentially resolve the problems encountered in Instant Meshes. He suggested I first apply all modifiers in Blender before exporting the model, as unapplied modifiers often result in mesh discrepancies. Additionally, he advised selecting “Selection Only” in the export settings and ensuring that all necessary model components were actively selected. To validate the export, he recommended importing the OBJ file into a new Blender scene to inspect the geometry and compare it against the version loaded in Instant Meshes.
Despite carefully following each of these steps, the issue persisted. The imported model displayed inconsistently in Instant Meshes, indicating that the problem might stem from deeper structural or compatibility issues within the mesh. While the troubleshooting did not lead to an immediate solution, the process was a significant learning opportunity, reinforcing the importance of correct export workflows, mesh preparation, and software compatibility in professional 3d modelling practice. I intend to explore solutions beyond this project to improve my modelling and retopology capabilities.
Time Management Reflection
I am pleased to say that I completed this stage ahead of schedule. Finishing the design and marketing materials early gave me extra time to concentrate on testing and refinement, making minor corrections, and improving the quality of the outcome. This part of the project highlighted the importance of good planning and adapting when technical issues like the Vanspace export limitation arise unexpectedly.
Conclusion
This testing and refinement stage helped me improve the technical and visual aspects of the project and strengthened my ability to problem-solve and adapt. Despite setbacks, I created a functioning AR experience demonstrating the potential of integrating 3d modelling and AR technology into the camper van sales process. I look forward to building on these foundations in future projects.