Future Technologies August - Augmented Reality

I've decided to blog about Augmented Reality this month because firstly, it suddenly seems to be popping up everywhere and secondly, it's cool.

So what is it? The wikipedia definition:

"Augmented reality (AR) is a field of computer research which deals with the combination of real-world and computer-generated data (virtual reality), where computer graphics objects are blended into real footage in real time."

Of course the best way to get your head round it is to see it. Here is a nice practical example of Augmented Reality in use:

http://www.vtt.fi/kuvat/projektit/imgaugasse/tty_ar_2.swf

Note that he can move the object and it moves around on the computer screen in real time and shows him where to place the next item. He can also see on the computer screen where his hands are so that he can see if his hand is in the same place as the graphic. In case you're interested, apparently this is a tractor engine's hydraulic block being assembled (I know, you already got that ;-)).

Toyota have also used AR to promote one of their cars. You can watch the demo, or even download it to try it out for yourself, at:

http://www.toyota.co.uk/cgi-bin/toyota/bv/frame_start.jsp?id=iQ_reality

Again notice how the person can move the object in real time to affect the image on the computer. It's very clear how AR can be used to generate interest in a new product in this way, no doubt marketing will continue to be one of the first main uses for the technology.

This example of AR with a business card I particularly like, I think because it reminds me of Princess Leia sending out her SOS message:

http://vimeo.com/4979525

HITLabNZ, the Human Interface Technology Laboratory in New Zealand have a very cool AR project called EyeMagic Book.

As you can see from this image the user holds special goggles in front of their eyes whilst looking at a book. The book then uses AR to deliver a 3D, moving image. Obviously the glasses are a little bulky but once they become smaller and more discreet you can easily see the commercial potential, especially with children's books, games etc.

Another area that keeps coming up is the use of AR for medical purposes i.e. surgery whereby you could have a graphical representation of a person's organs from an x-ray or scan during operations - such a great idea.

Leeds Metropolitan University are currently involved in research in augmented and mixed reality so if any businesses in the Yorkshire region are looking at investigating AR for commercial reasons, an Innovation Voucher could potentially get some time with an expert there.

I am also hopeful that this could be brought into education, a new way of teaching, especially about something that is difficult to get physically into the room but that could be demonstrated and viewed in 3D, inside and out. A much easier and more compelling way for someone to learn about something that would otherwise seem inaccessible i.e. ocean life, the solar system, large-scale architecture etc. Talk about the subject matter jumping off the page!