A Cloud Based Augmented Reality Framework - Enabling User-Centered Interactive Systems Development

Abstract

Concepts for user interfaces are developed in order to enable humans exchanging information and having a better understanding of different processes. With the rise of technology, concepts of enriching our environments with computer-generated graphics appeared in the 1960s. The expansion of visual perception of the surrounding is the core of Augmented Reality (AR). Many AR applications have been appearing in different areas, opening the door for revolutionizing and changing interactivity models and the way people perform tasks. Even though AR systems’ structures are well defined, applications are not yet widespread. One of the main reasons for this is that AR system developers face difficulties with developing their applications and adapting them to different hardware. Each hardware set (i.e. AR device) requires different software development kits and different technical requirements. That leaves AR concepts hard to be scaled and implemented in real life scenarios. One more additional challenge facing the implementing of AR is that AR mostly relies on complex vision-based algorithms. Based on that, this paper explores a lightweight, modular, and cross-platform solution. It presents a novel framework based on redesigning the AR pipeline, introducing a prototype of a solution where AR can operate within the cloud, converting all AR devices into thin clients with high performance capability. This also contributes directly to the Industry 4.0 aim of preparing the way for digitalized and optimized processes in a connected and integrated network.