GDC 2009 - Vuzix Corporation, maker of video eyewear, has introduced its Augmented Reality Accessory Kit
for the VR920 Virtual Reality Video Eyewear. Partnering with
metaio Inc., provider of augmented reality software solutions,
Vuzix demonstrated at GDC how a simple printed page can be
brought to life with 3D animated characters that literally pop out of
the book, reveals a representative. The company further accentuated the GDC expo experience with the thrill of a
fantasy tale coming to life with a fire-breathing dragon flying
overhead.
The Vuzix AR Accessory Kit consists of two features:
- CamAR, a clip-on USB camera that mounts onto a pair of Vuzix Video Eyewear. The CamAR not only allows the user to see through to the real world but is also designed to accurately track objects and the user’s position in three-dimensional space.
- PhasAR, a wireless augmented reality input controller, is designed to be used in unison with the CamAR. The PhasAR allows users to interact with virtual, mixed, and augmented reality worlds with a 6 degree of freedom tracking system that lets the computer know where the user is touching in the virtual and real worlds. Depending on the application, the PhasAR can become anything from a powerful virtual magic wand to a 3D virtual paint brush. The PhasAR enables 2D-like mouse support to control virtual objects in 3D space.
“This capability, known as Augmented Reality (AR), will open up new applications in the gaming, education and business sectors,” says Vuzix CEO, Paul Travers. “The applications for gaming and education will range from books that come alive to interactive worlds with 3D characters that materialize right before your eyes.”