AUGMENTED REALITY SYSTEM INCLUDING CORPORAL TACTILE DEVICES

Smart overview of the Invention

The augmented reality (AR) system is designed to enhance user experiences in educational and laboratory environments through advanced visual, tactile, and sensory feedback. It employs video see-through augmented reality (VST-AR) technology to capture real-world images and display enhanced versions on a screen. This system is particularly beneficial for providing realistic simulations that combine both digital and physical interactions.

Components and Functionality

At the core of the system is a VST-AR device equipped with external-facing cameras that capture the user's surroundings. These images are processed to overlay digital content, creating an augmented view on a display, which could be integrated into headsets or wearable devices. The system also includes a corporal entity, such as a laboratory vessel, marked with unique identifiers like QR codes or RFID tags for spatial data retrieval, enabling precise visual augmentations.

Integration of Sensors for Real-Time Interaction

The AR apparatus integrates multiple sensors to ensure dynamic interaction. An inertial measurement unit (IMU) attached to the vessel uses accelerometers, gyroscopes, and magnetometers to track movement and orientation. This data facilitates real-time adjustments in visual augmentations, allowing virtual contents like liquids to behave realistically when the vessel is moved. Additionally, capacitive tactile sensors detect user interactions by measuring changes in capacitance, providing tactile feedback.

Enhanced Sensory Outputs

Beyond visual and tactile enhancements, the system includes various sensory outputs. An olfactory output fan can simulate smells relevant to the augmented scenario, while an eccentric rotating mass (ERM) motor provides haptic feedback through vibrations. Auditory outputs further enrich the experience by adding sound effects that correspond with the visual and tactile interactions, offering a comprehensive multi-sensory simulation.

Connectivity and Applications

The AR system features wireless connectivity through IEEE 802.11 (Wi-Fi) and IEEE 802.15.1 (Bluetooth), ensuring seamless communication between components. This connectivity supports interactive simulations that are especially useful in educational contexts, allowing users to safely perform experiments without the risks associated with traditional laboratory settings. The integration of these technologies addresses prior limitations by providing a more immersive and interactive learning environment.