3D Model Appears to Drift or Float in 6DOF World Tracking

If a 3D model appears to drift, float, or move unnaturally when using 6DOF in WorldTracker, check the model’s pivot and ground alignment before assuming the issue is caused by tracking. A common cause is that the GameObject is positioned at (0, 0, 0), but the actual geometry is offset from its pivot. This can make the model appear to move relative to the real-world floor as the camera changes position.  

The Problem

In Unity, having the model’s Transform at (0, 0, 0) does not necessarily mean the bottom of the model is sitting on the ground. If the model’s pivot is located around its center, placing the object at Y = 0 can leave part of the geometry below the virtual ground plane. When you move the camera around the object in 6DOF, this incorrect alignment can create the visual impression that the model is drifting.  

Correct Model Setup

Make sure the bottom of your model is aligned with Y = 0. The model’s ground-level pivot should sit at the origin rather than having the geometry extend below it.

The following diagram illustrates the difference: A recommended hierarchy is:

MainObject (0, 0, 0)
└── Content (0, 0, 0)
    └── Your Model
        └── Bottom of model aligned with Y = 0

If the model’s pivot is in the center, you can either:

• Correct the pivot in your 3D modelling software, or
• Place the model under a parent GameObject and move the model upward until its floor aligns with Y = 0.

 

Why Transform Position Can Be Misleading

For example, Unity may show:

Position
X: 0
Y: 0
Z: 0

but the model can still be incorrectly aligned if its mesh extends below its pivot. Look at the model in the Scene view and verify that the actual bottom of the geometry sits on the ground plane.  

Large or Life-Size Models

There is an additional consideration when using very large environments such as a life-size booth, showroom, building, or walk-through experience. WorldTracker 6DOF works best when viewing and moving around normally sized AR content. With a life-size environment, users may physically walk inside the model and rotate the device through large angles. Tracking drift can become considerably more noticeable in this type of experience.

A miniature model is generally better suited to 6DOF. For life-size virtual showrooms or similar environments, consider a 3DOF experience with navigation hotspots instead of relying entirely on physical movement through the model.

Hotspots can allow the user to jump or smoothly move between predefined viewpoints while still looking around the environment. Update: For life-size virtual showrooms and portals, it is better to use the new World Tracker V8 along with 8th Wall XR Engine.

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  Source: Imagine WebAR Developer Community Originally discussed August 2025. View original Discord discussion → Join the Imagine WebAR Discord community →