Search Results (2,112)

For nearly three decades, researchers have explored the use of augmented reality for facilitating collaboration between humans and robots. In this survey paper, we review the prominent, relevant literature published since 2008, the last date that a similar review article was published. We begin with a look at the various forms of the augmented reality (AR) technology itself, as utilized for human–robot collaboration (HRC). We then highlight specific application areas of AR for HRC, as well as the main technological contributions of the literature. Next, we present commonly used methods of evaluation with suggestions for implementation. We end with a look towards future research directions for this burgeoning field. This review serves as a primer and comprehensive reference for those whose work involves the combination of augmented reality with any kind of human–robot collaboration. Full article

Strawberry production has been continually increasing worldwide, but this growth has often resulted in a lack of taste, favoring yield and plant adaptability instead. However, in recent decades, consumer focus has shifted towards more flavorful fruits. Consequently, the application of new sensory methodologies for consumers in strawberry breeding programs is becoming essential. This review provides an overview of new rapid consumer-based sensory methodologies and a brief summary of their potential applications when combined with Augmented Reality technology. These advancements aim to better understand and meet consumer needs, offering breeders valuable tools for their future work. Full article

The need for sustainability-oriented K–12 engineering education that expands beyond the classroom and the increased accessibility of educational technologies create an opportunity for examining the affordances of educational technologies in low-stakes informal engineering education settings. In this paper, we share our experiences of using novel technologies to develop sustainability-oriented mental models in K–12 informal engineering education. Through the use of technologies including Augmented Reality (AR), Virtual Reality (VR), Minecraft video games, Tinkercad (browser-based application for computer-aided design (CAD)), and physical computing, we have designed and tested approaches to introduce students to engineering design and engineering habits of mind with an overarching theme of developing sustainability-oriented mental models among K–12 youth in informal engineering education spaces. In this paper, we share our approaches, and lessons learned, and outline directions for future research. Full article

Laparoscopic access, a critical yet challenging step in surgical procedures, often leads to complications. Existing systems, such as improved Veress needles and optical trocars, offer limited safety benefits but come with elevated costs. In this study, a prototype of a novel technology for guiding needle interventions based on vibroacoustic signals is evaluated in porcine cadavers. The prototype consistently detected successful abdominal cavity entry in 100% of cases during 193 insertions across eight porcine cadavers. The high signal quality allowed for the precise identification of all Veress needle insertion phases, including peritoneum puncture. The findings suggest that this vibroacoustic-based guidance technology could enhance surgeons’ situational awareness and provide valuable support during laparoscopic access. Unlike existing solutions, this technology does not require sensing elements in the instrument’s tip and remains compatible with medical instruments from various manufacturers. Full article

In response to the digital transformation in education, this study explores the efficacy of virtual reality (VR) video games in teaching direct current electrical circuits at a public university in Colombia. Using a mixed-method action research approach, this study aimed to design, implement, and evaluate a VR-based educational strategy to enhance undergraduate learning experiences. The methodology integrated VR into the curriculum, facilitating a comparison of this innovative approach with traditional teaching methods. The results indicate that the VR strategy significantly improved students’ comprehension of electrical circuits and increased engagement, demonstrating the utility of immersive technologies in educational settings. Challenges such as the need for technological integration and curriculum adaptation were also identified. This study concludes that VR video games can effectively augment electrical engineering education, offering a model for incorporating advanced digital tools into higher education curricula. This approach aligns with ongoing trends in digital transformation, suggesting significant potential for broad applications across various educational contexts. Full article

Teaching root canal anatomy has traditionally been reliant on static methods, but recent studies have explored the potential of advanced technologies like augmented reality (AR) to enhance learning and address the limitations of traditional training methods, such as the requirement for spatial imagination and the inability to simulate clinical scenarios fully. This study evaluated the potential of AR as a tool for teaching root canal anatomy in preclinical training in endodontics for predoctoral dental students. Six cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) images of teeth were selected. Board-certified endodontist and radiologist recorded the tooth type and classification of root canals. Then, STereoLithography (STL) files of the same images were imported into a virtual reality (VR) application and viewed through a VR head-mounted display. Forty-three third-year dental students were asked questions about root canal anatomy based on the CBCT images, and then, after the AR model. The time to respond to each question and feedback was recorded. Student responses were paired, and the difference between CBCT and AR scores was examined using a paired-sample t-test and set to p = 0.05. Students demonstrated a significant improvement in their ability to answer questions about root canal anatomy after utilizing the AR model (p < 0.05). Female participants demonstrated significantly higher AR scores compared to male participants. However, gender did not significantly influence overall test scores. Furthermore, students required significantly less time to answer questions after using the AR model (M = 4.09, SD = 3.55) compared to the CBCT method (M = 15.21, SD = 8.01) (p < 0.05). This indicates that AR may improve learning efficiency alongside comprehension. In a positive feedback survey, 93% of students reported that the AR simulation led to a better understanding of root canal anatomy than traditional CBCT interpretation. While this study highlights the potential of AR in learning root canal anatomy, further research is needed to explore its long-term impact and efficacy in clinical settings. Full article

The sustainable development of tourism in cultural heritage sites benefits from the active participation of tourists in the co-creation process. Location-based AR games show great potential in tourists’ participation in creation and positive experiences. This study explores the relationship between the stage factors of the co-creation experience and the overall co-creation. Combining the service-dominant logic and process perspective of value co-creation theory, this research proposes a conceptual framework for co-creating experiences in cultural heritage tourism using augmented reality technology through two studies. In the first phase of the study, quantitative research was conducted on 256 visitors to measure the impact of factors in the three processes of pre-co-creation experience, on-site experience, and post-co-creation experience on the overall co-creation experience. In the study’s second phase, follow-up qualitative interviews were conducted based on multiple linear regression analysis results to expand the interpretation of the relationship and importance of factors affecting the co-creation experience process. The results show that psychological engagement, awareness, knowledge, and social relations during pre-visitation help enhance the overall co-creation experience. In contrast, the overall co-creation experience is enriched by real-time storytelling, interaction, and emotional resonance in both on-site and post-experience processes. The proposal of this framework model advances the discussion of augmented reality technology and co-creation experience to the empirical level. It provides a basis for further tourism co-creation experience design practice. Full article

Digital innovations have significantly transformed the marketing landscape, with visual technology solutions having become mainstream in the fashion industry approximately a decade ago. Digital technology offers a range of benefits to online fashion retailers, enhancing their online shopping platforms with augmented reality features that allow customers to “try on” products digitally before making a purchase. This research aims to explore the key factors influencing the use of augmented reality applications and e-commerce sites for purchasing apparel. A qualitative study was conducted to examine the visual experience and usage of augmented reality applications among young customers. The findings highlight the most relevant factors in the online fashion purchasing process, the visual experience, and the potential future use of augmented reality applications in fashion product purchasing. These insights are crucial for developing effective marketing strategies and communication messages. Full article

Sensory analysis methodologies are performed in sensory booths designed to minimise external stimuli, lacking ecological validity. Immersive environments are used to introduce contextual cues, but there is a lack of studies using mixed reality systems. The main goal of this study was to evaluate an augmented virtuality (AV) system where participants are inserted into a virtual environment and evaluate a real product, being able to interact with both dimensions. A panel of 102 consumers evaluated five samples of commercial peach nectars in three sessions, each in a different environment: public food court, living room (AV environments), and laboratory (traditional sensory booth). Consumers rated overall liking, followed by open comments, and also answered an Engagement (EQ) and a Presence Questionnaire (PQ). The type of environment only affected hedonic discrimination among samples, with the laboratory setting being the only one with sample discrimination. Nonetheless, each sample was not evaluated differently across the different environments. Concerning engagement, the environment only significantly influenced the EQ’s ‘Affective Value’ factor, being higher when using an AV system. The level of presence in the virtual environment was significantly higher in the public food court, being significantly correlated with the EQ factor scores. Full article

A myriad of types of artificial intelligence (AI) systems—namely AI-powered site search, augmented reality, biometric data recognition, booking systems, chatbots, drones, kiosks/self-service screens, machine translation, QR codes, robots, virtual reality, and voice assistants—are being used by companies in the tourism and hospitality industry. How are consumers reacting to these profound changes? This study aims to address this issue by identifying the types of AI systems that are used by tourists, the purposes they are used for in the present, and how likely they are to be used in the future. This study also aims to identify the types of emotions (positive vs. negative) that tourists associate with the use of AI systems, as well as the advantages and disadvantages they attribute to them. Considering the exploratory nature of the research, data were collected through an online survey shared on social media, which was available from September to December 2023. Results show that most respondents have already used several AI systems, assign more advantages than disadvantages to their use, and that the emotions they associate with their use are significantly positive. Moreover, compared to the small number of respondents (13.7%) who associate negative emotions with the use of AI systems, respondents who claim to feel positive emotions when using AI systems also evaluate them more positively in terms of their usefulness for tourism and hospitality. They identify more advantages, use a greater diversity of AI systems, and admit that they would use a more diverse range of AI systems in tourism contexts in the future. Full article

As technology advances, the field of electrical and computer engineering continuously demands the introduction of innovative new tools and methodologies to facilitate the effective learning and comprehension of fundamental concepts. This research addresses an identified gap in technology-augmented education capabilities and researches the integration of virtual reality (VR) technology with real-time electronic circuit simulation to enable and enhance the visualization of non-observable concepts such as voltage distribution and current flow within these circuits. In this paper, we describe the development of our immersive educational platform, which makes understanding these abstract concepts intuitive and engaging. This research also involves the design and development of a VR-based circuit simulation environment. By leveraging VR’s immersive capabilities, our system enables users to physically interact with electronic components, observe the flow of electrical signals, and manipulate circuit parameters in real-time. Through this immersive experience, learners can gain a deeper understanding of fundamental electronic principles, transcending the limitations of traditional two-dimensional diagrams and equations. Furthermore, this research focuses on the implementation of advanced and novel visualization techniques within the VR environment for non-observable electrical and electromagnetic properties, providing users with a clearer and more intuitive understanding of electrical circuit concepts. Examples include color-coded pathways for current flow and dynamic voltage gradient visualization. Additionally, real-time data representation and graphical overlays are researched and integrated to offer users insights into the dynamic behavior of circuits, allowing for better analysis and troubleshooting. Full article

Display technologies influence user experience, not only through the perception of product features but also due to their own usage properties. In this work, 12 functional, usable, pleasuring, and media usage properties were analysed for five display technologies: image rendering, 360° rotation, and augmented, immersive, and non-immersive virtual reality. The perception of their importance and their assessment for the chosen technologies were studied by taking two different household products. Two variables for studying decision and expectations were also considered. The results showed that 360° rotation was well-valued in various properties, mainly related to functionality and usability, while the immersive virtual technology stood out in media properties and also in the most important feature: realism. It was also seen that the results could depend on the displayed product. These results provide a deeper insight for user experience optimisation because they complement the information to choose the most appropriate display technology based on the properties to be prioritised. Full article

The introduction of new technologies in current digestive surgical practice is progressively reshaping the operating room, defining the fourth surgical revolution. The implementation of black boxes and control towers aims at streamlining workflow and reducing surgical error by early identification and analysis, while augmented reality and artificial intelligence augment surgeons’ perceptual and technical skills by superimposing three-dimensional models to real-time surgical images. Moreover, the operating room architecture is transitioning toward an integrated digital environment to improve efficiency and, ultimately, patients’ outcomes. This narrative review describes the most recent evidence regarding the role of these technologies in transforming the current digestive surgical practice, underlining their potential benefits and drawbacks in terms of efficiency and patients’ outcomes, as an attempt to foresee the digestive surgical practice of tomorrow. Full article

Object detection and human action recognition have great significance in many real-world applications. Understanding how a human being interacts with different objects, i.e., human–object interaction, is also crucial in this regard since it enables diverse applications related to security, surveillance, and immersive reality. Thus, this study explored the potential of using a wearable camera for object detection and human–object interaction recognition, which is a key technology for the future Internet and ubiquitous computing. We propose a system that uses an egocentric camera view to recognize objects and human–object interactions by analyzing the wearer’s hand pose. Our novel idea leverages the hand joint data of the user, which were extracted from the egocentric camera view, for recognizing different objects and related interactions. Traditional methods for human–object interaction rely on a third-person, i.e., exocentric, camera view by extracting morphological and color/texture-related features, and thus, often fall short when faced with occlusion, camera variations, and background clutter. Moreover, deep learning-based approaches in this regard necessitate substantial data for training, leading to a significant computational overhead. Our proposed approach capitalizes on hand joint data captured from an egocentric perspective, offering a robust solution to the limitations of traditional methods. We propose a machine learning-based innovative technique for feature extraction and description from 3D hand joint data by presenting two distinct approaches: object-dependent and object-independent interaction recognition. The proposed method offered advantages in computational efficiency compared with deep learning methods and was validated using the publicly available HOI4D dataset, where it achieved a best-case average F1-score of 74%. The proposed system paves the way for intuitive human–computer collaboration within the future Internet, enabling applications like seamless object manipulation and natural user interfaces for smart devices, human–robot interactions, virtual reality, and augmented reality. Full article

This article aims to assist readers in understanding the current status of studies on the subject by providing a descriptive bibliometric analysis of publications on virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR), and mixed reality (MR) technologies in cultural heritage. A bibliometric analysis of 1214 publications in this discipline in the Scopus database between 2014 and the beginning of June 2024 was performed. We used VOSviewer and Bibliometrix as the analysis tools in this investigation. The outcome of this study provides a detailed overview of the descriptive bibliometric analysis based on seven categories, including the annual count of articles and citations, the most productive author, the primary affiliation, the publication source, and the subject areas. The contribution of this research lies in offering valuable insights for practitioners and researchers, helping them make informed decisions on the use of immersive technologies, for example, VR, AR, and MR, in the context of cultural heritage. Full article