Smarter objects : programming physical objects with AR technology

Abstract

This thesis describes a system that associates a virtual object with each physical object. These objects are connected to support a flexible and easy means of modifying the interface and behavior of a physical object. It also supports the creation of simple interactions with other "smarter" objects to create more complex functionality. As a user interacts with a physical object, an augmented reality interface visualizes the virtual object on top of the physical object and gives the user an intuitive graphical interface for modifying the object's interface and behavior or defining how it relates to other objects. As such, the system provides an innovative interface for programming the behavior of physical objects. The contribution of the thesis lies in the meaningful separation of physical and virtual object interactions, a concept of direct mapping and the interprogrammability of Smarter Objects. The thesis presents the employment of Smarter Objects from all aspects and discusses a working implementation as well as several usage scenarios demonstrating potential applications. Finally, the thesis reflects on the implications of this approach for industrial design.