Spatial augmented reality — A tool for 3D data visualization

This paper presents a proposal for the use of Spatial Augmented Reality as a tool for 3D data visualizations. The use of traditional display technologies such as LCD monitors provides a fish tank metaphor for the user, i.e. the information is behind a plane of glass. The use of VR technologies allows the user to be immersed in the 3D volume and remove this fish tank problem, but can limit the set of techniques that allow users to interact with spatial data. Spatial Augmented Reality employed in conjunction with a highresolution monitor provides an elegant blend of spatial reasoning, tangible interaction, and detailed information viewing. This paper purposes a range of usages for SAR in 3D visualizations.