Multiple-view product representation and development using augmented reality technology

Abstract

In this research, an AR-based collaborative design system has been developed to support product representation and development among multiple users with an intuitive AR interface. A server/client framework has been developed to support the communication among distributed or co-located users. In the framework, a tri-layer scheme product representation has been designed to support product design and visualization in an AR-based environment. Using the proposed collaborative mechanisms and the information communication schemes designed in the system, the product model and product information can be maintained consistently in the different views of the users. With head-mounted displays, the users can visualize the product information, such as the design history document displayed in a tabulated format, and the feature information rendered as annotations. View management of augmented information in the views of the users is addressed in this research. An enhanced cluster-based greedy algorithm has been developed to avoid overlapping between the annotations.