Augmenting possibilities in interior furnishings
The seamless integration of virtual objects within real scenes remains problematic with regards to the ability to produce the correct reflections and lighting from the virtual object. Project ARISmakes it possible to compute the highlights and reflections on the surroundings of such objects. Reconstructing the lighting conditions for a given image aims to even out differences between true and augmented reality. The system, which is mobile, features a portable central unit, which contains a database of furniture models that can be incorporated by the user into the real scene. The mobility of the unit and the short installation times enable users, such as furniture companies, to provide their customers with AR views of furniture into their actual space. Numerous participants can use the system simultaneously. They are connected to the system by means of a lightweight portable computer equipped with a head mounted display (HMD). Each participant is tracked through the mobile AR unit and can select and position furniture from a catalogue on their HMD by means of a joystick attached to a notebook PC. The virtual objects are captured on camera and presented to the participants though their HMDs, providing each participant with the same augmented reality view. Participants can communicate with each other through a communication module. It is hoped that with further development the participants will also be able to communicate with a remotely located e- commerce server where an interior designer would be at hand to provide advice. The system is an excellent means for visualising limitless possibilities in indoor furnishings. Companies wishing to incorporate this powerful tool into their own services or any other interested parties are invited to explore the possibilities.
