AR Sandbox
Introduction
An augmented reality (AR) sandbox is a 3D, interactive, dynamic educational tool to help understand mapping, topography, watersheds, natural hazards, and more! This tool uses a motion sensor and specialized computer software to map contour lines (lines of equal elevation) onto the sand that adjust to the elevated levels of the sand in real time. It's a fun, and addictive, way to learn through play for the young and the young at heart.
It comprises of:
- A first-generation Kinect
- A short-throw digital projector
- A sandbox for your sand (our sandbox is 40" by 30" by 8")
- Roughly 200 lbs of white sand
- A Linux-friendly computer with fast NVIDA GPU, running Ubuntu 14.01 or 16.04
Playing with the AR Sandbox
Setup and Play
Assuming everything is connected and software is downloaded, the first step (after switching everything on of course) was to calibrate the kinect device and align it to the base sandbox. The depth view needs to cover the entire interior of your sandbox. It's okay if it overlaps slightly.
There were a couple of steps to calibrate the corners of the projection, the alignment and elevation to cover the projection. After all the boring (and insanely annoying) part was done, we finally got to the sand part - the most exciting part.
Next step - fill the sandbox with white sand. And after that, the fun begins! We started creating islands and different shapes and messed around with the water and "rain".
The resulting augmented reality (AR) sandbox allows users to create topography models by shaping real sand, which is then augmented in real-time by an elevation color map, topographic contour lines, and simulated water.
Evaluation
Processing and Reactivision in action
The AR Sandbox has numerous functions. From natural disaster planning and preparation, to out-of-the-box learning and education.
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