Assignment 2/3 Report - Car Anatomy Exploration

This section provides an introduction and overview of the Car Anatomy Exploration project.

The "Car Anatomy Exploration" AR Unity Project is an interactive educational application that has been specifically developed to educate users on the fundamental components and systems found in automobiles through the utilisation of Augmented Reality (AR) technology. This application enriches the educational experience by providing users with the opportunity to engage with three-dimensional (3D) models of automobile components superimposed onto real-life photos of these components. Users can also access instructive elements by utilising virtual buttons.

The application is a software programme that has been developed to fulfil a particular objective and function. It is designed to provide users with a range of features and capabilities that are intended to enhance their overall experience and productivity.

The purpose of the application is to perform a specific set of functions or tasks. The augmented reality application titled "Car Anatomy Exploration" offers users an immersive and instructive experience. The application superimposes three-dimensional representations of automobile components over actual photos of these components, including but not limited to the engine, brake system, exhaust system, tyres, and wheels. Individuals have the ability to interact with simulated buttons in order to retrieve information and explanations pertaining to each component, in order to enhance their comprehension of automotive anatomy.

Within the realm of automotive education, this particular application serves as a means of bridging the divide between theoretical knowledge and practical comprehension. This software application provides users, encompassing both students and automotive aficionados, with the opportunity to visually and actively engage with various car components. Engaging in these practical activities in the context of the application facilitates an understanding of the intricacies of the automobile.

Augmented reality technology enhances the learning process by introducing an additional level of involvement and immersion. This technology facilitates the observation and manipulation of three-dimensional models within the physical environment, thereby transforming abstract ideas into tangible entities. Augmented reality (AR) technology holds significant relevance in the context of visualising and elucidating complex systems, such as those seen in automotive vehicles.

The interactions have a crucial role in promoting active learning and fostering engagement. Users are afforded the capability to choose particular automobile components and retrieve information on the go, facilitating a thorough comprehension of each automotive part.

The provided storyboard depicts a standard use-case scenario for the interface technologies and interactions within the "Car Anatomy Exploration" augmented reality (AR) application.

(Figure 1)

The field of interface technology encompasses the study and development of various methods and tools used to facilitate communication and interaction between humans and computer systems. The programme employs augmented reality (AR) technology, namely powered by Vuforia. Users interact with the augmented reality (AR) material by aligning the webcam on their device with a printed representation of an automobile component, commonly referred to as a marker. Upon detection, three-dimensional (3D) models are overlaid onto the marker, enabling users to engage in interactive interactions with them.

In order to actively participate in interactions, users must possess the necessary skills and knowledge. To initiate the application, users are required to activate it on their augmented reality (AR)-compatible device, specifically, a desktop or laptop with a webcam. Align the camera of the device with the printed representation of a car component (marker). To get information about the pieces, users can interact with the virtual buttons situated beneath the 3D models.

The visualisation of the car is the introduction to the programme. The presented 3D model serves as a visual representation of the automobile in question. The selected model is a Porsche Carrera GT, which was picked due to its intriguing nature and ability to captivate users, encouraging them to explore the application.

(Figure 2)

The engine component is a crucial element in the functioning of an automotive system. The presented 3D model depicts the internal combustion engine of an automobile. The primary objective of this device is to provide a visual representation of the internal mechanisms of an engine, encompassing components such as pistons, cylinders, and spark plugs.

(Figure 3)

The brake system components are a crucial element in the overall functioning of a vehicle's braking system. The presented 3D model provides a comprehensive representation of the brake system, with a particular focus on the brake disc rotor, brake pads, and callipers. It facilitates comprehension of the operational mechanisms of brake components.

(Figure 4)

The exhaust system components are a crucial element of the combustion system of the car. The provided 3D model serves as a visual representation of the exhaust system, specifically emphasising the exhaust manifold, catalytic converter, and muffler components. This study offers valuable insights pertaining to the management of emissions and the mitigation of noise pollution.

(Figure 5)

The wheels and tyres are a crucial component of the driveline system in a car. The presented 3D models depict automobile tyres and wheels. The primary objective of these graphic representations is to emphasise the inherent importance of tyres and wheels in facilitating traction and bearing the weight of the vehicle.

(Figure 6)

References - 

Brakes photo: Brembo brake kit - holden VE / VF Commodore (2023) JHP. Available at: https://jhp.com.au/shop/suspension-brakes/performance-brake-kits/brembo/brembo-b... (Accessed: 22 September 2023). 

Part Descriptions: Car anatomy (2023) Car Construction. Available at: https://www.newkidscar.com/ (Accessed: 22 September 2023).

Figure 2: Cuomo, F. (2023) Free 3D model Porsche Carrera GT - turbosquid 2122483, Free 3D model PORSCHE CARRERA GT - TurboSquid 2122483. Available at: https://www.turbosquid.com/3d-models/3d-model-porsche-carrera-gt-2122483 (Accessed: 22 September 2023). 

Car Photo: Demuro, D. (2021) 2004 Mazda RX-8 - 6-speed manual, ~66,100 miles, Grand Touring package, many modifications, Cars & Bids: Auctions of cool modern cars, trucks, and SUVs. Available at: https://carsandbids.com/auctions/3gnZ41No/2004-mazda-rx-8 (Accessed: 22 September 2023). 

Figure 5: Domeen (2023) Free exhaust 3D model, free exhaust 3d model. Available at: https://www.turbosquid.com/3d-models/free-exhaust-3d-model/544192 (Accessed: 22 September 2023). 

Tyre photo: Hunting, B. (2023) Nitto NT01 track day tire review: Classic datsun Z, DrivingLine. Available at: https://www.drivingline.com/articles/nitto-nt01-track-day-tire-review-classic-da... (Accessed: 22 September 2023). 

Image targets (2023) Image Targets | Vuforia Library. Available at: https://library.vuforia.com/objects/image-targets (Accessed: 24 September 2023). 

Figure 1: Nalder, C. (2023) Storyboard, Canva. Available at: https://www.canva.com/design/DAFvW4hNuyA/otfV_nW1L8as3IeD8ajLIw/view?utm_content... (Accessed: 24 September 2023). 

Figure 6: QR Design (2023) Free wheel rim 3D model, free wheel rim 3d model. Available at: https://www.turbosquid.com/3d-models/free-wheel-rim-3d-model/840782 (Accessed: 22 September 2023). 

Figure 3: Royrsorenson (2023) Free OBJ model nostalgia motor, free obj model nostalgia motor. Available at: https://www.turbosquid.com/3d-models/free-obj-model-nostalgia-motor/349037 (Accessed: 22 September 2023). 

Figure 4: Strattus (2023) Free brake disk 3D model, free brake disk 3d model. Available at: https://www.turbosquid.com/3d-models/free-brake-disk-3d-model/523161 (Accessed: 22 September 2023). 

Exhaust photo: Tomei Expreme ti cat-back titanium exhaust – Toyota GR supra (type D) (2022) Performance Parts Online – Moonlight Racing Australia. Available at: https://www.moonlightracing.com.au/shop/exhaust/cat-backs/tomei-expreme-ti-cat-b... (Accessed: 22 September 2023). 

Virtual buttons (2023) Virtual Buttons | Vuforia Library. Available at: https://library.vuforia.com/objects/virtual-buttons (Accessed: 24 September 2023).