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WalkMap: Developing an augmented reality map application for wearable computers

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Abstract

We have designed, implemented, and evaluated a map application for wearable computer users. Our application, called WalkMap, is targeted at a walking user in an urban environment, offering the user both navigational aids as well as contextual information. WalkMap uses augmented reality techniques to display a map on the surrounding area on the user's head-worn display. WalkMap is constructed by the means of software development, user interface design and evaluations, and existing knowledge on how humans use maps and navigate. The key design driver in our approach is intuitivity of use. In this paper, we present the design and implementation process of our application, considering human-map interfaces, technical implementation, and human-computer interfaces. We identify some of the key issues in these areas, and present the way they have been solved. We also present some usability evaluation results.

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  1. Nokia Research Center, Tampere, Finland

    J. Lehikoinen & R. Suomela

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  1. J. Lehikoinen
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  2. R. Suomela
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Correspondence to J. Lehikoinen.

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Lehikoinen, J., Suomela, R. WalkMap: Developing an augmented reality map application for wearable computers. Virtual Reality 6, 33–44 (2002). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF01408567

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF01408567

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