Interactive system for augmented reality control and manipulation

Abstract

This Final Year Project (FYP) aims to implement a system where humans can interact freely and naturally with the computer. The areas of research include the use of infrared tracking. The infrared technology, despite having being existent for a long time (since 1960), is still a very largely used component. Its use in this project is attributed to the fact that it provides good tracking capabilities, and unlike the use of vision-based techniques such as web cameras, there is no need to compensate for light differences, thus making it very robust when used in different conditions.

In order to track the infrared, the Nintendo’s Wii Remote Controller (WiiMote) is used. The WiiMote has infrared sensor to detect the infrared and is able to connect to the computer to send its location. This turns the WiiMote into a receiver for infrared signals to create tracking. User is then able to use infrared to manipulate objects on a computer screen.

Using the managed WiiMote library, an immersive interactive system has been built. The system offers a new type of gesture interface, which proves to be a very useful tool for anyone who wants more interaction with the computer other than the use of the traditional mouse and keyboard.