Touch-sensitive augmented reality system for development of handheld information appliances

摘要

Handheld information devices such as digital cameras and smart-phones are products that unify hardware and software. The body of such products is compact, but it has various functions. Usability is one of the most important factors affecting their commercial competitiveness. However, it is difficult to estimate usability precisely in the design process. Because of usability is strongly affected by the shape of the body, the types and arrangement of the switches etc. In order to accurately evaluate the usability of these products, users must operate them directly. However it is difficult to manufacture prototypes that are operable. Therefore, we have adopted an augmented reality technique to solve the problem. This paper introduces, a touch-sensitive augmented reality system, and describes the construction of a touch sensor made of pressure sensitive conductive rubber, a fingertip tracing method using an LED marker, and an augmented reality system. Finally, we have conducted basic system evaluations.