ArKinect
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Augmented reality sandbox lets you change the course of rivers, won't get you wet
Ask any kid, playing in the sandbox is fun enough on its own, but too much moisture will turn your grainy playground into a lumpy mess. Researchers at UC Davis have cooked up one solution: an augmented reality sandbox. Much like last year's SandyStation, the project uses a Kinect sensor in conjunction with a digital projector and a bit of software to overlay topographical data and simulated water over a traditional -- and dry -- sandbox. The end result is an augmented environment that can be used to teach geographic, geologic and hydrological concepts. The team hopes the project will help them develop hands-on exhibits for science museums, teaching visitors about contour lines, watersheds, catchment areas and more. Check out the video above for a full demo, or scope out the source below for the technical nitty-gritty.
Archaeologists eschewing traditional whip / leather jacket combo for Kinect controllers
The latest must-have piece of technology in the archaeological world? The Kinect. Students from the University of California, San Diego are taking Microsoft's much-hacked peripheral on an archeological dig in Jordan, using the device to help create 3D scans of the site on the cheap. The hack pulls data captured by the Kinect's camera and infrared scanner, turning the information into avatars that can be plugged into virtual worlds. The hack's creator is hoping that it might some day be able to capture information as complex as a buildings or neighborhoods. The first, decidedly less ambitious application is being referred to as "ArKinect," because what's a cool hack without a cool name?
