Natural interface in augmented reality interactive simulations
Pier Paolo Valentini · Virtual and Physical Prototyping · 2012
This paper deals with the description of a novel methodology in order to achieve realistic interactive simulations in an augmented reality environment. The challenge for achieving robust, real-time and accurate simulations is one of the most promising research areas in augmented reality. The key point is to increase the level of interaction between the user and the scene changing the user's role from spectator to actor. In the specific implementation, the interaction between the scene and the user is achieved with the use of an invasively-low device. The methodology is based on the use of a depth infra-red camera in addition to a standard image sensor in order to acquire the three-dimensional geometry of the scene and perform an efficient user tracking. Following this approach, it is also possible to manage occlusions between real objects and virtual ones. All these features have been integrated to a real-time dynamic solver in order to produce accurate manipulation of objects and dynamic simulations. The methodology is presented focusing on both hardware and software tools and some interesting examples have been discussed and the performances evaluated.