Adding augmented virtual interfaces to simple smart objects for ubiquitous computing environments

Abstract

In a ubiquitous computing environment, computers are hidden from the user. Everyday objects embedded with computer processing capability become smart objects that act as interfaces to computer software. As every object is different in geometric shape and physical features, the implementation method of translating human interactions with objects to computer functions and using the same objects as output would vary greatly from object to object. Furthermore, it would be hard to define sufficient unique interactions with objects of relatively simple design for interfacing with complex computer software with a multitude of functions. In this paper, a framework for enhancing ubiquitous computing environments with augmented reality and an approach for modeling virtual interaction and output interfaces for individual smart objects are described. The authors show how this approach can ease the creation of smart objects to provide more interaction and output options with simple physical objects. In addition, the authors show how special needs users can be given added accessibility to smart objects through this framework without any modification to the smart objects. © 2013 IADIS.