Mixed Augmented Reality Systems for Real World Integration

Motivational Overview

Since the birth of computing technology, humans have used computers as a tool to further their progress. Numerical computation has always been the backbone of computing technology, but as this technology advances, a wider range of high-level tools are realized. AR is ultimately the addition of computer-generated information related to the user’s current perception of reality. The more information we have ab out our surroundings, the better equipped we are to function in that environment. This concept of information as a useful tool has been seen in all aspects of life. Equipped with a map and compass, someone can more easily navigate through an unfamiliar environment. The map informs the user of environmental information while the compass provides a sense of direction relative to that environment. These tools are useful aids, but they still leave room for human expertise for their effective use. Imagine the same user equipped with a wearable computer continuously providing directional information to keep this user on course. This technology could guide a user with limited knowledge through completely foreign environments. AR has many known uses and will continue to advance the human toolset as its technology advances. The medical field has been significantly impacted by the introduction of AR. The ability of a surgeon to visualize the inside of a patient can greatly improve the precision of operation. Other fields have also been positively impacted. From the augmentation of live NFL broadcasts, where the “first down line” is added to the assisted maintenance of aircraft through heads-up information, AR is proven to be a useful and powerful tool in our society. These forms of human-computer interaction involve one-way communication. The computer system acquires knowledge pertaining to the user, position and orientation for example and uses this knowledge to communicate to the user in context. The user’s view of the environment is then augmented with pertinent information. It is understood that the power of AR would be taken a step further with the introduction of user interaction with the augmented information. This interaction would allow the user to decide if, how, when and where information is augmented. The ability of the user to interact with and control the augmented world is currently missing in AR systems. For AR to become as common as the wristwatch, an acceptable mechanism for such two-way communication must be established.