A Framework for Data-Driven Augmented Reality

Abstract

This paper presents a new framework to support the creation of augmented reality (AR) applications for educational purposes in physics or engineering lab courses. These applications aim to help students to develop a better understanding of the underlying physics of observed phenomena. For each desired experiment, an AR application is automatically generated from an approximate 3D model of the experimental setup and precomputed simulation data. The applications allow for a visual augmentation of the experiment, where the involved physical quantities like vector fields, particle beams or density fields can be visually overlaid on the real-world setup. Additionally, a parameter feedback module can be used to update the visualization of the physical quantities according to actual experimental parameters in real-time. The proposed framework was evaluated on three different experiments: a Teltron tube with Helmholtz coils, an electron-beam-deflection tube and a parallel plate capacitor.