Virtual and augmented reality

Abstract

The rapid development of microprocessors and graphics processing units (GPUs) has had an impact on information and communication technologies (ICT) over recent years. 'Shaders' offer real-time visualisation of complex, computer-generated 3D models with photorealistic quality. Shader technology includes hardware and software modules which colour virtual 3D objects and model reflective properties. These developments have laid the foundations for mixed reality systems which enable both immersion into and realtime interaction with the environment. These environments are based on Milgram's mixed reality continuum where reality is a gradated spectrum ranging from real to virtual spaces. © 2009 Springer Berlin Heidelberg.