Augmented Reality > How It Works

Augmented Reality is the process of taking a live video feed and "augmenting" it with computer generated objects and content so as to appear to actually be in the "real" world. Our AR exhibits use a high definition camera video feed to bring educational and marketing materials to life. See the video below for a demonstration of Augmented Reality in action.

In this augmented reality system, we use high definition video cameras and sophisticated "markerless" image recognition technology to recognize a card (or other real-life object). Once recognized, the system can track the card in realtime as you move it around. "Markerless" tracking means that the system can recognize the card without special symbols like barcodes or glyphs.

Once the system knows which card is in its view, it imposes a layer of computer generated graphics on top of the live video image. The added layer can be animated and even programmed to respond to different motions you make with the card. For instance, an animated character may simply appear to be standing on the card – but if you jiggle it, the character may lose balance, or even slide to the edge and "fall off." Another feature, "pointing detection," allows the user to "press" buttons with their fingers to activate and interact with the content. The addition of animation in response to user-generated input makes the augmented reality experience even more compelling.

Video Examples

Interactive Heart Anatomy

Interactive Brochure

Helicopter Trade Show Event

Interactive Story Book