A Collaborative Molecular Graphics Tool for Knowledge Dissemination with Augmented Reality and 3D Printing

Abstract

We propose in this article a concept called "augmented 3D printing with molecular modeling" as an application framework. Visualization is an essential means to represent complex biochemical and biological objects in order to understand their structures as functions. By pairing augmented reality systems and 3D printing, we propose to design a new collaborative molecular graphics tool (under implementation) for scientific visualization and visual analytics. The printed object is then used as a support for the visual augmentation by allowing the superimposition of different visualizations. Thus, still aware of his environment, the user can easily communicate with his collaborators while moving around the object. This user-friendly tool, dedicated to non-initiated scientists, will facilitate the dissemination of knowledge and collaboration between interdisciplinary researchers. Here, we present a first prototype and we focus on the main molecule tracking component. Initial feedback from our users suggests that our proposal is valid, and shows a real interest in this type of tool, with an intuitive interface.