Technology
What is augmented reality?
Augmented reality is real time integration of digital information into users’ real surrounding environment. It overlay’s content in the real world making a perception of reality enhancing the real-world environment which is achieved through digital visual elements and sound. AR devices are equipped with cameras, sensors and a display unit. The devices can include smartphones and tablets, and wearables like smart glasses and headsets.
How does augmented reality work?
Augmented reality works on smart glasses and Head-up displays. Devices which have GPS, accelerometers and sensors like ipads, iPhones and smartphones are compatible with augmented reality applications. Google’s Arcore and Apples’s ARKit facilitate the development of mobile AR applications for Android and iOS.
The basic steps for AR processing are Sensing and tracking, Process and recognition and Rendering and display. It receives video streams by sensing the surrounding environment and tracking physical objects in view. It uses a gyroscope, accelerometer and GPS for tracking the position and orientation.
After scanning, it processes the environment and creates a digital twin by recognizing a similar environment stored in the cloud and downloading it or using artificial intelligence to recognize similar objects.
The processed object after rendering is displayed on AR devices’ field of vision. Digital object is rendered in correct perspective and orientation, appearing to the user as if the object were physically present. Objects can be manipulated by the user by sending commands through a touch screen, physical gestures or by voice.
Types of Augmented reality
There are two types of augmented reality marker based and marker-less. Marker-less is more immersive while marker based is less cost intensive and more accessible.
Marker-based AR: This type of AR uses a marker like QR code or printed Image in order to trigger AR experience. When the device camera detects the marker, it detects the display of associated AR experience. It overlays the 3D model or animations of the real world onto the marker.
Marker – less AR:
This type of AR does not require any marker like QR for triggering AR. It relies on device sensors, accelerometer, camera and GPS to map the user’s environment in the real world. It analyzes the user’s physical environment and uses computer vision and algorithms to place digital content at specific points in the real world. It gives a more spontaneous and dynamic experience.
Augmented reality uses:
Education: AR can give an immersive learning experience to students. It can be a scientific simulation and 3D model for experiments being overlaid into their physical surrounding.
Gaming: AR can create virtual creatures in the real world like in Pokemon which giving interactive and virtual experience.
Manufacturing and Industry: AR can be used for training workers, explanation of products and equipment in an industrial environment.
Navigation:
AR can be used in navigation as apps can overlay direction or point of interest giving information in an intuitive way.
Architecture and home design: AR gives real time preview of architectural design and home interiors giving users intuitive experience.