Augmented virtual reality (AR) is a type of virtual reality that overlays digital information on the real world. While the concept of AR has been around for decades, it wasn’t until the 1960s that the technology was first developed. In this article, we will explore the history of AR and its creators.
The Early Days of Augmented Reality
AR can be traced back to the work of Ivan Sutherland, a computer scientist who developed Sketchpad, an early computer graphics program, in 1963. In 1968, Sutherland created the first AR system called “The Sword of Damocles,” which projected a virtual sword onto a real-world surface. This was done using a combination of optical and computer technology, including a projector and a camera.
AR in the 1970s and 1980s
In the 1970s, researchers at the University of Utah developed AR software called “Utah Teapot,” which allowed users to view a virtual teapot on top of a real-world surface. This was done using a head-mounted display (HMD) and a stereo camera system.
In the 1980s, researchers at the Xerox Palo Alto Research Center developed AR software called “AltoVista,” which allowed users to view virtual objects on top of real-world surfaces using a handheld device.
The Modern Era of Augmented Reality
In the early 2000s, the term “augmented reality” was first used in academic papers, and the technology began to gain more widespread attention. In 2010, Apple introduced ARKit, a development platform for creating AR applications on iOS devices. This sparked a wave of AR app development, and today, there are countless AR apps available for smartphones and tablets.
The Future of Augmented Virtual Reality
AR technology is constantly evolving, and we can expect to see even more advancements in the coming years. As the technology becomes more accessible and affordable, it will likely be used in a wide range of applications, from education and training to gaming and entertainment.
In conclusion, AR has come a long way since its early days, and it is thanks to the work of pioneers like Ivan Sutherland that we have the technology we have today. As AR continues to develop, we can expect to see even more exciting applications and innovations in this rapidly growing field.