Augmented reality (AR) is a technology that enhances or “augments” the user’s view of the real world by overlaying digital information on top of it. AR has been around for decades, and many people have contributed to its development. However, there are some individuals who are often credited with inventing AR. In this article, we will explore the history of AR and the key figures who have played a role in its development.
History of Augmented Reality
The concept of augmented reality can be traced back to ancient times. For example, Greek architects used optical illusions to create the illusion of depth and perspective in their buildings. In more recent times, AR has been used for military purposes. During World War I, German pilots used a device called the “Pilotage Hélice” to overlay information about enemy positions on top of their view of the battlefield.
However, it wasn’t until the 1960s that AR technology began to be developed for civilian use. One of the earliest examples of AR was the “Ivan Sutherland Sketchpad,” which was created in 1963 by Ivan Sutherland, an American computer scientist. The Sketchpad allowed users to draw on a virtual canvas and view their creations in real-time.
In the 1970s, AR technology was further developed by researchers at the Xerox Palo Alto Research Center (PARC), which later became known as Apple. One of the key figures involved in the development of AR at PARC was J.C.R. Licklider, who is often credited with coining the term “augmented reality.”
Key Figures in Augmented Reality Development
There are many people who have made significant contributions to the development of augmented reality technology. Here are a few key figures:
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Ivan Sutherland – As mentioned earlier, Ivan Sutherland is widely credited with inventing AR. He created the first AR system, the Sketchpad, in 1963.
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J.C.R. Licklider – Licklider was a pioneer in the field of AR and coined the term “augmented reality” in the 1970s. He also played a key role in the development of AR technology at PARC.
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David Chernoff – David Chernoff is an American computer scientist who made significant contributions to the field of AR in the 1980s. He developed one of the first AR systems for personal computers, which he called “Augmented Reality Toolkit” (ARTK).
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Tom Ivester – Tom Ivester is another American computer scientist who made significant contributions to the development of AR technology. He worked with David Chernoff at PARC and later went on to develop his own AR system, which he called “Virtual Light.”
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Shuji Nakamura – Shuji Nakamura is a Japanese researcher who has made significant contributions to the field of AR in recent years. He developed one of the most popular AR apps, called “Aurasma,” which has over 100 million downloads.
Conclusion
While there are many people who have contributed to the development of augmented reality technology, Ivan Sutherland, J.C.R. Licklider, David Chernoff, Tom Ivester, and Shuji Nakamura are often credited with inventing AR. These individuals, along with many others, have played a crucial role in shaping the future of AR and making it an integral part of our daily lives.