Introduction to ARVR
Module 1
1
Introduction to Immersive Technologies
Immersive technologies are transforming how users interact with digital content by
blending virtual and physical environments. These technologies include Augmented
Reality (AR), Virtual Reality (VR), Mixed Reality (MR), and Extended Reality (XR).
Taxonomy of Immersive Technologies:
Augmented Reality (AR):
AR overlays digital information—such as images, sounds, and 3D objects—onto the
real world in real time. It enhances the physical environment without replacing it.
Examples include mobile apps like Pokémon GO, Snapchat filters, and AR navigation in
Google Maps. Overlays digital content onto the real world using devices like
smartphones or AR glasses.
Virtual Reality (VR): VR creates a fully immersive digital environment, replacing the
real world with a simulated one. It typically requires headsets (like Oculus Quest or
PlayStation VR) that block out the physical world and engage users in a 360-degree
virtual space, often used for gaming, training, and simulations..
COPYRIGHT © 2019 VERITAS TECHNOLOGIES LLC 2
Introduction to Immersive Technologies
Mixed Reality (MR): Mixed Reality blends the physical and digital worlds, allowing real
and virtual objects to interact in real time. Unlike AR, which only overlays digital
content, MR enables users to interact with both real and virtual environments
simultaneously.
Example:
Microsoft HoloLens: Users can place and manipulate 3D holograms in their physical
environment, such as designing 3D models or playing interactive games where virtual
characters react to real-world objects.
Magic Leap: Offers MR experiences where digital objects like virtual pets can interact
with furniture in a room.
COPYRIGHT © 2019 VERITAS TECHNOLOGIES LLC 3
Introduction to Immersive Technologies
Extended Reality (XR): Extended Reality is an umbrella term that encompasses all
immersive technologies, including Virtual Reality (VR), Augmented Reality (AR), and
Mixed Reality (MR). It refers to all environments that combine real and virtual
elements, either through immersion or enhancement.
Example:
A virtual training program for surgeons that combines VR for practicing procedures, AR
for displaying patient data, and MR for interactive simulations.
Meta (formerly Facebook) developing XR platforms like the Metaverse, which
integrates VR social spaces, AR digital overlays, and MR interactions.
COPYRIGHT © 2019 VERITAS TECHNOLOGIES LLC 4
Technology and Features of Augmented Reality
Hardware: AR headsets, smart glasses, mobile devices.
Software: AR SDKs (ARKit, ARCore), 3D modeling software.
Key Features: Real-time interaction, 3D registration, context-aware applications.
Differences Between AR, VR, MR, and XR
Feature AR VR MR XR
Real world with Blend of real and Encompasses AR,
Environment Fully virtual
overlays virtual VR, MR
Real-time Varies across
Interaction Limited to overlays Fully immersive
interaction technologies
Smartphones, HoloLens, Magic All immersive
Devices VR headsets
glasses Leap devices
COPYRIGHT © 2019 VERITAS TECHNOLOGIES LLC 5
Challenges with Augmented Reality
Technical Constraints: Hardware limitations, battery life.
Content Creation: High development costs, complex 3D modeling.
User Experience: Motion sickness, limited field of view.
Privacy and Security: Data privacy concerns, unauthorized data access.
AR Systems and Functionality
Display Systems: Optical see-through, video see-through displays.
Tracking Systems: GPS, gyroscopes, depth sensors.
Interaction Methods: Gesture recognition, voice commands, touch inputs.
Augmented Reality Methods
Marker-Based AR: Uses visual markers (QR codes) to trigger AR content.
Markerless AR: Relies on GPS, accelerometer for location-based AR.
Projection-Based AR: Projects light to create interactive displays.
Superimposition-Based AR: Replaces original view with an augmented one
COPYRIGHT © 2019 VERITAS TECHNOLOGIES LLC 6
Visualization Techniques for Augmented Reality
3D Object Visualization: Displaying 3D models in real-world environments.
Information Overlay: Adding contextual data over real-world views.
Spatial Mapping: Understanding and mapping the physical environment.
Occlusion Handling: Properly layering virtual objects with real-world elements.
Conclusion: Immersive technologies like AR, VR, MR, and XR are reshaping digital
interaction. Understanding their taxonomy, technologies, and challenges is crucial for
leveraging their potential in various industries.
COPYRIGHT © 2019 VERITAS TECHNOLOGIES LLC 7
COPYRIGHT © 2019 VERITAS TECHNOLOGIES LLC 8
