Molecular manipulation in augmented reality: A user experience design applied research on new paradigms of interaction.
Francesco Fontana · Aaltodoc (Aalto University) · 2018
This thesis presents the further developments of VR CHEM (2017), a molecular manipulation software in Virtual Reality. After evaluating a shift to Augmented Reality, changing consequently the name to AR CHEM, the project focused on this technology as it offers a competitive advantage for future development, especially considering the less invasive user experience and the incoming investments in the market. The project is developed using HoloLens and Unity 3D as a platform, as these tools are considered the state of the art for AR technologies (2018). The thesis presents a first iteration of new paradigms of interactions in AR: the 3D user interfaces and the Platform System. While the first explore the possibility of giving information to the user through 3D models used as UI/UX indications, the second strengthen the user’s visual perception of depth in space, tying all the content to more tangible elements.