ChemLab AR

Students can perform and interact with chemistry experiments without the need for dangerous chemicals.

Description

This application allows students to use chemicals which would normally be considered too dangerous to work with. They can move different flasks around and mix the chemicals inside to see the results.

The application recreates typical chemistry lab flasks and chemicals, which allows students to spend more time creating and performing experiments rather than spending time setting up and packing down experiments. “AR helps classes to be more interactive, interesting, and engaging” (P. Kiliraj & D. Thirupathi, 2016), which often leads to better results due to the higher interest. They can also explore more dangerous chemicals which they normally would not be able to.

Using augmented reality for this application allows students to continue to collaborate and discuss learning materials by maintaining the link to the classroom with different objects to interact with. “Interactive hybrid learning environments help to increase conceptual understanding” (P. Kiliraj & D. Thirupathi, 2016) which is especially important in higher level subjects, like chemistry, but can also be applied to most other topics across STEM subjects.

Interaction Design

By bring image targets close together it allows uses to decide which chemicals to use. The user can then lift and rotate the image target to move the flash and complete the experiment. Being able to move the 3D objects creates a more engaging experience rather than the experiment being purely animated.

Technical Development

This application was developed for use with a computer webcam.

Users can interact with the 3D objects by moving the image targets they are tracked to. Moving the flask into the correct spot (“pouring”) triggers visual feedback and completes the experiment.

Description of 3D Models

Round Flask	Used to represent experiment site
Tube	Use for user interaction to complete experiment

References

Kaliraj, P, & Thirupathi, D (eds) 2021, Innovating with Augmented Reality: Applications in Education and Industry, Auerbach Publishers, Incorporated, Milton. Available from: ProQuest Ebook Central. [24 September 2023].

3D Models:

Free Laboratory Pack by StormBringer Studios - https://assetstore.unity.com/packages/3d/props/tools/free-laboratory-pack-123782

Target Images:

From Vuforia (can download below)