BOOK

In the summer of 2004, Innovationlab asked Kollision to develop two prototypes that could show the possibilities of AR - Augmented Reality. Based on previous experiences we chose the open source software, ARtoolkit, as a starting point for developing prototypes based on camera recognition of visual patterns (basically the same technology as QR codes). The prototypes aimed at showing how AR allows us to mix or digital layers and the real world, creating an enhanced – or augmented – reality. In collaboration with programmer, Peter Skaarup, we developed two applications, which each in their own way, illustrated and explored the interplay between physical and digital layers.

Book is a prototype that takes the traditional book and expands it by adding a series of visual patterns on the book's pages, which then allows a camera and its underlying software to recognize patterns and overlay 3D information and sound to the book's otherwise static content. Book presents Kollision’s NWOL project and uses our avatar, Kaptain Okay, to tell the story. By moving the camera in relation to the patterns on the book's pages, you can increase or decrease volume, turn on the small animations and view three-dimensional scenes from multiple angles.

Book works by using an ordinary webcam to film the book, a standard PC with software, which recognizes the book's various patterns and act on the basis of the patterns identification, orientation and position, and a screen on which physical and digital layers are mixed.