CD Laboratory for Handheld Augmented Reality

Augmented Reality (AR) combines virtual objects and real-world perceptions in a single image. The CD Laboratory's research focuses on the application of this technology in mobile devices such as smartphones and on optimising the software behind it.---- AR technology is used to deliver location-based, computer-generated information directly to a smartphone equipped with a camera, GPS module and compass: If you point an AR device at a certain object, it is identified and the corresponding information is automatically retrieved from a database. In the display on the device, this information is superimposed on a live video image as a computer graphic. The mobile phone camera serves as a data source for a so-called video see-through user interface.---- One focus of the research work is the investigation and improvement of computer vision methods. These make it possible to track (determine position) and recognise objects - in real time - with an accuracy of 1 cm and 1 degree. Due to the limited computing power of smartphones, the analysis of the camera image poses a particular challenge to the research work.---- Another main area of interest is methods for realistic image synthesis and new visualisation techniques that serve to merge real and virtual objects in AR. The visualisation determines what information is to be displayed and in what form. Methods for efficient 3D interactions with smartphones are also being investigated.---- Finally, concepts for infrastructures for implementing georeferenced AR applications are being developed. The focus here is on the optimal interaction of the various components based on modern Internet technologies for the generation, distribution and consumption of AR content. Thanks to the research work, these applications will be easily scalable, i.e. they will have optimised resource requirements in the face of increasing demands.