Alternative Augmented Reality Approaches: Concepts, Techniques, and Applications

Abstract

In this tutorial we discuss application specific alternative augmented reality (AR) approaches –such as Virtual Showcases and Shader Lamps– that focus on overcoming some of the limitations linked to conventional AR displays. State-of-the-art concepts, details about hard- and software implementations, and current areas of application are presented. An extensive overview over different stereoscopic and auto-stereoscopic display techniques is given. This enables readers to identify parallels between Virtual Reality and augmented reality displays concepts, and stimulate them to think about alternative approaches for AR. Our focus is on interactive rendering techniques that support display concepts, such as projector-based or spatial optical seethrough AR. Methods that create graphical augmentations with respect to the applied optical elements and display surfaces, and techniques for creating a high level of consistency between real and virtual environments will be discussed. Finally, our experiences made with such technologies within art, edutainment, research and industrial areas will be shared with the audience. By handing out construction drawings and algorithms, we aim at enabling participants to realize such systems on their own.