Abstract:

This project aims at implementing the technology of augmented reality in the studies of Industrial Design Engineering. Initial trials have been done considering the subject “Representation techniques for Industrial Design”, which is part of the degree of Engineering in Industrial Design and Product Development in the Technical University of Madrid (Spain). This subject is found in the third year of the syllabus.

The goal is to improve the motivation of the students and the learning process when undertaking the different steps of the design process of a product. Augmented reality can be useful not only for the presentation of the final product but also during of the analysis of the baseline scenario, conceptualization and development of products.

During the development of this project it has been carried out a literature research to identify the use of this technology in other universities and the way followed to use it as a learning tool. The fact is that the survey carried out showed that the use of this technology in teaching is still uncommon and difficult to find in the learning guides. Afterwards, a survey on the software that allows the use of augmented reality was done, identifying different tools with different advantages and disadvantages, which were listed. The tool selected for our study was the Augment Reality software. Several 3D models of products were developed with different level of complexity and using the Blender software. The use of the augmented reality with these 3D models was explored developing several case studies. Once the methodology that allows to operate with this tool was described it was produced a user manual to facilitate the operation with the software to the students. Different digital material was developed besides the user manual, such as videos, handouts, a repository of 3D models, etc. This material is planned to be used by the students in a programmed experience within the classroom at the end of the semester. The experience is based in two activities. The first one consists in an explanation of the augmented reality, case studies and an example to show how to operate with the Augment Reality software. The second one consists in a practical experience where the students operate with 3D models provided and the augmented reality software to explore the capabilities and to provide a feedback.

At the end of this experience with the augmented reality the students will fill a survey in order to be able to establish some discussion and derive conclusions. The information gathered will allow to plan a strategy to introduce this technology in the syllabus of the studies of Industrial Design in the near future.

Keywords:

Augmented reality, Industrial Design, Teaching.