New Popular Resource    

Augmented reality (AR) is a term that is becoming increasingly popular with recent developments in technology – advanced low power chips and new operating systems in mobile devices, built-in GPS and high-speed communications. The term is believed to have been first used by Thomas Caudell from Boeing in 1990. The augmentation of reality is achieved by superimposing different types of information on a live direct or indirect view of a physical real-world environment, thus creating a mixed reality.  Many different industries are working on different AR applications to help people in achieving their tasks in a more efficient way.

One example of an AR application is the developed by BMW set of tools for support of automotive technicians in performing repair work.  Using augmented reality, the mechanic receives additional three-dimensional information to help him in diagnosing the fault. He sees virtually animated components, the tools to be used, and hears instruction on each of the working steps through headphones integrated inside the goggles. The BMW Augmented Reality guides the mechanic through the entire repair procedure. Growing demand and increasing technical complexity are thus met with a constantly high level of service based on maximum expertise and cutting-edge technology. A short video describing the process can be seen at www.bmw.com/com/en/owners/service/augmented_reality_introduction_1.html

Specialized applications like these can be very useful for repair of different primary or secondary equipment in substations. While it may take some time to see AR applications in the world of PAC, you can already experience some using your smart phone thanks to Layar – an augmented reality browser that displays real time digital information on top of reality seen though the camera of your mobile phone.

 In Layar what is web pages in normal browsers are replaced by Content Layers. A layer is the digital view that is added to the camera view. Layar enables content partners to offer Augmented Reality experiences. It offers an easy interface to discover and use Augmented Reality services.

Layar was first launched in June 2009 in The Netherlands and its second generation Reality Browser is now available globally from SPRXmobile on mobile devices with the Android operating system. The operating system allows the use of the mobile phone camera as the source of the reality view on which the content from the layer is superimposed. The built-in GPS provides to the browser the location of the user, while the built-in digital compass delivers the direction at which the user is pointing that is used to provide the information available for the subject of interest from the selected content layer.

It will be interesting to see what Layar and other augmented reality applications may become available in our field in the future.