VISUAL: Mixed & Augmented Reality

In one project, we developed an augmented reality application that identifies specific products on a grocery store shelf and provides visual cues to quickly direct a user’s attention to these products. We’re exploring augmented reality applications in other domains as well such as wayfinding.

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ArLane is a HoloLens proof of concept application, built by the Lab and The Foundry @ Cornell Tech to run in Aol’s Area 51 Lab in their New York City headquarters. Building from the technology described above, ArLane aims to enrich people’s in-store experience: as they gaze at an item, ArLane provides extra information displayed on a virtual card that can be flipped to display related products.

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Another project aims to link distributed teams in a way that builds mutual awareness while respecting privacy. The Visualink Portal is a remote telepresence system that can be installed in offices, labs, or common areas to connect groups working toward a common goal. While previous visual awareness systems are difficult to integrate into existing spaces and cause privacy concerns among users, the Visualink Portal uses modular components and existing surfaces while applying techniques that help it assuage privacy concerns.

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Yet another project, also found in the audio track, uses 3D printing to create objects with computer-readable labels. Combined with sensing technologies and real-time feedback, the models help people with low vision learn new concepts without relying on visual or tactile graphics. You can read more about the project at its website.

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