Static visualizations have analytic and expressive value. However, many interactive tasks cannot be completed using static visualizations. As datasets grow in size and complexity, static visualizations start losing their analytic and expressive power for interactive data exploration. Despite this limitation of static visualizations, there are still many cases where visualizations are limited to being static (e.g., visualizations on presentation slides or posters). We believe in many of these cases, static visualizations will benefit from allowing users to perform interactive tasks on them. Inspired by the introduction of numerous commercial personal augmented reality (AR) devices, we propose an AR solution that allows interactive data exploration of datasets on static visualizations. In particular, we present a prototype system named VisAR that uses the Microsoft Hololens to enable users to complete interactive tasks on static visualizations.
The MagicBook project is an early attempt to explore how we can use a physical object to smoothly transport users between reality and virtuality. Young children often fantasize about flying into the pages of a fairy tale and becoming part of the story. The MagicBook project makes this fantasy a reality using a normal book as the main interface object. People can turn the pages of the book, look at the pictures, and read the text without any additional technology. However, if a person looks at the pages through an augmented reality display, they see 3D virtual models appearing out of the pages. The models appear attached to the real page so users can see the augmented reality scene from any perspective by moving themselves or the book. The virtual content can be any size and is animated, so the augmented reality view is an enhanced version of a traditional 3D pop-up book. We are introducing a new type of digitally enhanced book which symbiotically merges different type of media in a seamless approach. By keeping the traditional book (and its affordance) and enhancing it visually and aurally, we provide a highly efficient combination of the physical and digital world. Our solution utilizes recent developments in computer vision tracking, advanced GPU technology and spatial sound rendering. The systems' collaboration capabilities also allow other users to be part of the story. Evaluations of AR experiences in an educational setting provide insights into how this technology can enhance traditional learning models and what obstacles stand in the way of its broader use. A related video can be seen here: http: youtu.be ndUjLwcBIOw. It shows examples of augmented reality experiences in an educational setting.