Natural interaction and wearable augmented reality for the enjoyment of the cultural heritage in outdoor conditions

Abstract

In this paper, a first prototype of a wearable, interactive augmented reality (AR) system for the enjoyment of the cultural heritage in outdoor environments, is presented. By using a binocular see-through display and a time-of-flight (ToF) depth sensor, the system provides the users with a visual augmentation of their surroundings and with touchless interaction techniques to interact with synthetic elements overlapping with the real world. The papers describes the hardware and software system components, and details the interface specifically designed for a socially acceptable cultural heritage exploration. Furthermore, the paper discusses the lesson learned from the first public presentation of the prototype we have carried out in Naples, Italy.