Development of an Augmented Reality Application for Complex Anatomical Visualization

This research project involves the creation of a prototype augmented reality learning tool, called the Hand Augmented Reality Application (HARA). Recent studies show that researchers are generating increasingly large amounts of information every year. Educators have recognized that traditional methods of teaching anatomy can be slow, expensive, and sometimes inefficient. The medical education system must be reevaluated to allow students to learn the necessary anatomical information, while keeping up with the large volumes of information and new research added to the medical school curriculum. A variety of new methods for teaching anatomy are being explored. The main focus of HARA is to develop an augmented reality learning application for mobile devices that will detect a display with a physical, 3D printed model. When detected, the application will overlay detailed 3D models of the relevant anatomy, in the proper scale, position, and orientation. HARA aims to focus on the anatomy of the human hand, due to its complexity, frequent usage, and high rate of injury and disease.