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Curriculum for �Second Year B.Tech � Information Technology ��BIT24MD02 : Augumented Reality A.Y 2025-26�Sem – II

By-

Alpana A Borse

Asst. Prof.

IT Department

PCCOE, Pune

Introduction to Augmented Reality (A.R.)

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Unit III: Computer Vision for Augmented Reality & A.R. Software (8Hrs)

Introduction to Augmented Reality (A.R.)

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Syllabus

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    • Computer Vision for Augmented Reality - Marker Tracking, Multiple-Camera Infrared Tracking
    • Natural Feature Tracking by Detection, Simultaneous Localization and Mapping, Outdoor Tracking
    • Augmented Reality Software - Introduction, Major Software Components for Augmented Reality Systems, Software used to Create Content for the Augmented Reality Application

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Computer Vision for Augmented Reality & A.R. Software

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    • Fundamentals → vision techniques → AR integration → applications
    • Computer Vision acts as the “eyes” of AR systems. It helps the system:
  • Understand the real world
  • Detect objects, surfaces, and motion
  • Overlay virtual objects correctly

👉 Example: Snapchat filters

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Definition of Computer Vision

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Computer Vision is a field of Artificial Intelligence that enables computers to capture, process, and interpret visual information from the real world (such as images and videos) in order to make meaningful decisions (analyze data from real world).

It allows machines to “see and understand” like humans by:

  • Identifying objects
  • Recognizing patterns
  • Understanding scenes

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Definition of Computer Vision

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🔹 Example:

  • Face detection in mobile phones
  • Object recognition in AR applications
  • Self-driving cars detecting roads and obstacles

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Computer Vision for Augmented Reality & A.R. Software

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    • Augmented Reality (AR) relies on computer vision techniques
    • To integrate digital objects into the real world
    • Two key tracking methods used in AR are
      1. Marker Tracking and
      2. Multiple-Camera Infrared Tracking

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Computer Vision for Augmented Reality & A.R. Software

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Earth Explore using AR

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To integrate digital objects into the real world

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1. Marker Tracking

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    • Marker-based AR uses predefined patterns (markers) that a camera can detect to determine position and orientation in 3D space.

Working:

    • The camera captures a black-and-white marker (usually a QR code-like pattern).
    • The AR system analyzes the marker's shape and position using computer vision.
    • The system superimposes digital content on the marker in real time.

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🔹 Marker Tracking - Applications

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    • AR-enabled books and educational materials
    • AR business cards and interactive ads
    • AR gaming (e.g., tabletop AR games)

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2. Multiple-Camera Infrared Tracking

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    • This method uses multiple infrared cameras to track objects in 3D space with high precision.
    • It is commonly used in motion capture systems and advanced AR applications.

Working:

    • Infrared cameras emit IR light that reflects off markers or body-worn sensors.
    • The cameras capture multiple angles, and computer vision algorithms triangulate the position.
    • The system processes the data to create real-time AR overlays.

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2. Multiple-Camera Infrared Tracking

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Multiple-Camera Infrared Tracking

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Applications:

    • Motion capture for AR-based animation and gaming
    • AR-based medical simulations and training
    • High-precision industrial AR applications

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Motion capture for AR-based animation and gaming�

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Differences

Feature

Marker Tracking

Multiple-Camera Infrared Tracking

Definition

Uses visual markers (QR codes, AR tags) to anchor AR content.

Uses multiple infrared cameras to track objects/users in 3D space.

Technology Used

Computer vision algorithms detect markers using a standard camera.

Infrared cameras track reflective markers or active emitters.

Tracking Accuracy

Moderate; depends on marker visibility and contrast.

High; provides precise real-time 3D tracking.

Lighting Conditions

Affected by poor lighting and reflections.

Works well in various lighting conditions using infrared signals.

Field of View

Limited to the camera’s view of the marker.

Covers a wider area using multiple cameras.

Occlusion Sensitivity

Loses tracking if the marker is blocked.

Less affected by occlusions as it tracks from multiple angles.

Use Cases

AR books, packaging, museum guides, AR games, interactive media.

Motion capture, full-body tracking, AR-based sports training, robotics.

Setup Complexity

Simple; requires only a camera and printed markers.

Complex; requires multiple cameras and controlled setup.

Cost

Low-cost and easy to implement.

Expensive due to multiple infrared cameras and setup requirements.

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1. Introduction to Tracking Technology

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Categorization of augmented reality tracking techniques.

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Difference Between Marker-Based and Markerless Tracking

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    • Marker-based tracking relies on predefined physical markers for positioning and is highly accurate.
    • Markerless tracking uses AI and computer vision to recognize objects or environments, providing more flexibility but requiring higher processing power.

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Marker Based

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Categorization of augmented reality tracking techniques.

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Marker Based

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Categorization of augmented reality tracking techniques.

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Marker less

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Categorization of augmented reality tracking techniques.

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Marker less

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Categorization of augmented reality tracking techniques.

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Marker less

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Difference Between Marker-Based and Markerless Tracking

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Feature

Marker-Based Tracking

Markerless Tracking

Definition

Uses predefined physical markers (QR codes, AR markers, fiducial markers) for tracking.

Uses computer vision and AI to recognize objects, features, or environments without predefined markers.

Tracking Method

Camera detects the position and orientation of the marker to place virtual objects.

Analyzes the environment using feature detection, SLAM (Simultaneous Localization and Mapping), and AI-based recognition.

Examples

- QR codes in AR apps

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Computer Vision for Augmented Reality: Natural Feature Tracking, SLAM & Outdoor Tracking

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    • Augmented Reality (AR) heavily relies on computer vision techniques to track objects and align virtual elements with the real world.
    • Three important tracking methods used in AR are:

    • Natural Feature Tracking (NFT)
    • Simultaneous Localization and Mapping (SLAM)
    • Outdoor Tracking

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1. Natural Feature Tracking (NFT)

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    • NFT is a markerless tracking technique
    • It recognizes real-world objects or textures instead of predefined markers
    • Imagine your phone or AR glasses recognizing and tracking real-world objects, such as buildings, posters, or books, and overlaying digital information on them
    • This technology allows augmented reality (AR) applications
      • To accurately position and anchor virtual content based on natural features in the environment, enhancing the realism and interactivity of AR experiences

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1. Natural Feature Tracking (NFT) - Working

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    • The camera captures an image
    • Detects natural features like corners, edges, or textures
    • A computer vision algorithm (like SIFT, SURF, or ORB) extracts key feature points
    • The AR system matches these features against a database and overlays virtual objects

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1. Natural Feature Tracking (NFT) - Working

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1. Natural Feature Tracking (NFT) - Working

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Applications

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    • AR product packaging (e.g., interactive labels)
    • AR museum guides (tracking paintings, statues, etc.)
    • AR user manuals (overlaying instructions on real-world devices)

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2. Simultaneous Localization and Mapping (SLAM)

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    • SLAM is a real-time tracking technique that enables AR systems to understand and map an unknown environment while tracking the user’s position
    • Working
    • The AR system continuously captures camera frames and detects key feature points
    • It creates a 3D map of the environment while estimating the camera’s position
    • The system updates the map dynamically, allowing virtual objects to stay fixed in place

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Applications:

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    • AR navigation (e.g., indoor AR maps)
    • AR gaming (e.g., Pokémon GO)
    • AR remote assistance (placing virtual annotations in a real-world scene)

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Block diagram of the IMU and SLAM relationship to Pose and the 3D map

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3. Outdoor Tracking

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    • Outdoor tracking enables AR experiences in large open spaces, such as streets, parks, or city environments
    • It relies on GPS, computer vision, and sensor fusion to accurately place digital content

Working

    • GPS & IMU sensors determine rough position and orientation
    • Computer vision algorithms analyze surroundings for fine-tuned tracking
    • The AR system aligns virtual objects with the real-world environment

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Summary of Tracking Methods

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    • NFT: “Track features”
    • SLAM: “Track + build map”
    • Outdoor Tracking: “Track in real world using GPS + SLAM”

👉 NFT → SLAM → Outdoor

    • NFT = basic
    • SLAM = advanced
    • Outdoor = real-world application

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Summary of Tracking Methods

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Tracking Method

Key Features

Best Use Cases

Natural Feature Tracking (NFT)

Uses real-world textures instead of markers

Product packaging, museum exhibits, manuals

SLAM

Creates a dynamic 3D map of the environment

AR navigation, gaming, remote assistance

Outdoor Tracking

Uses GPS, IMU, and vision for large-scale AR

AR tourism, outdoor gaming, city navigation

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Feature

Natural Feature Tracking (NFT)

SLAM

Outdoor Tracking

Purpose

Track features in images

Build map + track position

Track in real outdoor environment

Input

Camera images

Camera / LiDAR / sensors

GPS + sensors + camera

Main Work

Detect & follow points

Localization + Mapping

Large-scale tracking

Map Creation

❌ No

✅ Yes

✅ (sometimes via SLAM)

Position Tracking

❌ Limited

✅ Yes

✅ Yes

Environment

Small/local scenes

Indoor + outdoor

Mainly outdoor

Complexity

Low

High

Medium to High

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Feature

Natural Feature Tracking (NFT)

SLAM

Outdoor Tracking

Purpose

Track features in images

Build map + track position

Track in real outdoor environment

Example

📱 Instagram filter tracks your face features (eyes, nose) and keeps the filter fixed while you move

🤖 Robot in a room creates a map of walls and furniture while moving and knows its position

🚗 Google Maps navigation tracks your location on roads using GPS while you travel

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NFT, SLAM, Outdoor Tracking

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AR Software

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AR Software

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AR Software

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AR Software

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1. AR Development SDKs & Platforms

Software

Description

Supported Platforms

ARKit

Apple's AR development framework for iOS.

iOS

ARCore

Google's AR SDK for Android devices.

Android

Vuforia

Powerful AR SDK for image, object, and model tracking.

iOS, Android, Unity

Wikitude

AR SDK for marker-based and markerless tracking.

iOS, Android, WebAR

Maxst AR

Supports image, object, and environment tracking.

iOS, Android

Kudan AR

High-performance AR SDK with marker and markerless tracking.

iOS, Android

EasyAR

Lightweight AR SDK for mobile applications.

iOS, Android, Unity

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AR Software

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2. AR Content Creation & Development Tools

 

Software

Description

Unity 3D

Game engine widely used for AR/VR development.

Unreal Engine

High-quality rendering engine for immersive AR applications.

Lens Studio (Snapchat)

AR tool for creating Snapchat Lenses.

Spark AR Studio (Meta)

Used for building AR experiences on Instagram and Facebook.

8th Wall

Web-based AR development platform for mobile browsers.

Zappar

WebAR and app-based AR development platform.

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AR Software

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3. AR Cloud & Remote Rendering Solutions

 

Software

Description

Microsoft Azure Spatial Anchors

Cloud-based AR tracking for multi-user experiences.

Google AR Cloud

Cloud-based AR experience for persistent content.

Niantic Lightship

Real-world AR development platform from Niantic.

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AR Software

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4. AR for Enterprise & Industrial Use

Software

Description

PTC Vuforia Studio

AR for industrial applications and IoT integration.

HoloLens Mixed Reality Toolkit (MRTK)

AR/MR development for Microsoft HoloLens.

Scope AR

AR for industrial training and remote assistance.

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Major software components of Augmented Reality (AR) Systems:

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1. Tracking & Registration Module

Ensures accurate alignment of virtual objects with the real-world environment.

Uses Marker-Based Tracking, Markerless Tracking, SLAM (Simultaneous Localization and Mapping), or GPS-based tracking.

Technologies: OpenCV, ARKit (Apple), ARCore (Google), Vuforia.

2. Scene Rendering Engine

Renders 3D virtual objects in real-world scenes.

Uses 3D graphics engines like Unity3D, Unreal Engine, or WebAR libraries.

Handles lighting, shading, and occlusion for realism.

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Major software components of Augmented Reality (AR) Systems:

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3. Sensor & Input Processing

Integrates data from cameras, GPS, accelerometers, gyroscopes, and depth sensors.

Ensures accurate motion detection and environmental interaction.

Software APIs: ARKit, ARCore, Vuforia.

4. Interaction & User Interface (UI) Module

Manages user interactions via touch, voice commands, gestures, or controllers.

Uses gesture recognition, hand tracking, and speech processing.

Libraries: OpenXR, Leap Motion, MRTK (for HoloLens).

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Major software components of Augmented Reality (AR) Systems:

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5. Augmented Content Management System

Stores, retrieves, and delivers 3D models, animations, audio, and text in real-time.

Uses cloud or local databases for content delivery.

Examples: Google Cloud, Firebase, AWS for cloud-based AR content.

6. Networking & Cloud Integration

Enables multi-user collaboration, remote rendering, and cloud-based processing.

Uses edge computing and 5G networks for real-time performance.

Technologies: WebRTC, Photon (for multiplayer AR), Google AR Cloud.

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Major software components of Augmented Reality (AR) Systems:

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7. AR Development Platforms & SDKs

Provides tools and APIs for building AR applications.

Examples:

ARKit (Apple) – iOS AR development.

ARCore (Google) – Android AR development.

Vuforia – Cross-platform AR SDK.

Wikitude – WebAR & mobile AR development.

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