3D/AR/VR refers to three-dimensional files (3D) and the spectrum of immersive experiences you can view them, including but not limited to augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR). While AR overlays computer-generated images, sounds, and other sensory inputs with real-world images or views (often experienced through a smartphone camera or specialized AR glasses), VR uses a blend of computer software and hardware to re-create the sensory impression of real-world experience entirely through digital media (often experienced using a headset and hand controllers). Other formats of immersive technology include mixed reality (MR) and 360 degree photographs/film. Together, this spectrum is known as Extended Reality (XR).
Schaffer Library can support your research as you think through how to publish, host, peer review, and preserve a 3D/AR/VR project you are creating and help you locate existing 3D/AR/VR repositories or projects in your discipline or major. The MakerWeb Imagine Lab off of the Wold Atrium offers a selection of AR/VR equipment and experiences you can try out yourself!
AR Daily Prophet:
Students in Dr. Jennifer Mitchell's Beyond the Wizarding World of Harry Potter first-year preceptorial used Zapworks to create their own AR Daily Prophet newspaper to explore the interplay of voice and media. When viewers scan the Daily Prophet posters using the Zapper App, the still images move and recreate the magical quality of the newspapers in the Harry Potter world.
3D/AR Cultural Heritage:
Lily Crissy ('20) created 3D models of select ceramics in the Robert Finks East Asian Ceramics Collection in the Permanent Collection to explore how museums are engaging with digital technologies to reach audiences remotely. While taking classes remotely during the pandemic, Lily included the 3D model of a ceramic tea bowl in her sculpture project to explore "silence," displaying a distant work of art on an empty pedestal she constructed at home. She emphasizes that the "mixed media work combines photogrammetry, augmented reality, and traditional sculpture techniques to emphasize the importance of virtual exhibitions and documentation, while maintaining the belief that it may not replace the original." Lily worked with Dr. Andrew Burkett, Dr. Sheri Lullo, Julie Lohnes, and Jennifer Grayburn to create the 3D model of the collection and completed the sculpture for Chris Duncan's sculpture course.
3D Modeling Literary Architecture:
Students in Dr. Andrew Burkett's Literature of the Manor House course created 3D models of architecture described in English novels. Students analyzed literary descriptions of architecture and conducted research on architecture of that time period to model. They synthesized this research into an annotated model of key buildings or spaces in the text. You can see the students' work in the course collection on our Sketchfab page.