Augmented reality

Augmented reality (abbreviated AR) is an environment that includes both virtual reality and real-world elements. For instance, an AR user might wear translucent goggles; through these, he could see the real world, as well as computer-generated images projected on top of that world.

Azuma defines an augmented reality system as one that

combines real and virtual
is interactive in real time
is registered in 3D

This definition is now widely used in research literature (Azuma, 1997).

Wearable computers can be important in some implementations of augmented reality.

Table of contents

1 Applications
2 Related links

2.1 References

Applications

One example of AR is the yellow first-down line seen in television broadcasts of football games. The real-world elements are the football field and players, and the virtual element is the yellow line, which is drawn over the image by computers in real time. (Note that this example is not an augmented reality according to the definition above, because there is no interactive element). Some other examples of AR applications include:

Interactive three-dimensional maps that could be collaboratively modified and analized (e.g. for prospecting).
Visualization of hidden features (e.g. a doctor could "see" the fetus inside the mother's womb).
Assisting difficult task (e.g. the system could "label" the parts of a system in order to facilitate the mechanic's work)
Teleconferencing with both real and virtual participants
Games