Augmented Reality (AR) has long been talked about and has been lauded by many as the "next big thing" in terms of interactive software.

Here is what Wikipedia has to say about it: Augmented reality is a term for a live direct or indirect view of a physical real-world environment whose elements are merged with (or augmented by) virtual computer generated imagery - creating a mixed reality. Read more here.

Here is an example of a Kiwispan building projected via Augmented Reality onto my desk:

It would be easy to assume that there is little use for such technology beyond a novel way of presenting models and ideas. But watch this video of the technology as it is being developed by BMW for foolproof vehicle maintenance and troubleshooting:

So as you can see, augmented reality has the potential to be much more than just a toy.

Here is what BMW have to say about the technology: "Research in the field of augmented reality is paving the way for a number of new applications in BMW Service. BMW Augmented Reality techniques provide ideal support in maintenance work on complex technical innovations in the vehicle. Using special data goggles and wireless access to a powerful computer, BMW mechanics have all the information at their disposal, precisely where they need it: in the workshop, at the vehicle."

At Coastal Concepts we will be keeping abreast of the developments in AR with keen interest. The video by BMW was posted on youtube in 2007 so we are sure there must have been some interesting developments since then.

Currently at Coastal Concepts we can present your models like they are shown in the top video (thanks to the clever AR media plugin from Inglobe Technologies), if you think this may be useful to you or your business then contact me.