Fiducial Markers - Augmented Reality

 In this tute we were introduced to Augmented Reality (AR) being created by 'Fiducial Marhers' (digital barcodes). Augmented Reality combines both the real world with the virtual world by creating three dimentional digital holograms on a digital screen. This allows for interaction with the graphics rather than an 'outside' view observing what is placed infront of them.
I haven't had much experience or interest in 3D animation but this was quite intriguing and awesome to see how a piece of paper with a black and white graphic could create images and even sounds.


A camera is used to track a marker to calculate the position of the marker to the camera and vice versa. The camera can then create a digitally physical form calculating the position, distance angle and scale of the object. This can allow for interaction between real and virtual reality.

The link below is a great example of combining real with augmented reality. As the man holds up the marker, it instantly creates a 3D image which he can then physically interact with.

You can watch the video or follow the steps to try it out yourself.

Smart Grid Augmented Reality example

The following videos are examples of how Fiducial Markers work in different situations.

I would like to have some form of use with Fiducial Markers as they are very interesting and fun to use. However, the placement and size of the marker and even how the user would hold it/them would generally be somewhat insufficiant to the end prodect. Holding a marker is easy, but determiing what other body gestures were or could be made would alter the outcome of using a marker.