Reflection

Overall I found this assignment to be very interesting as it exposed me to the new technology of Augmented Reality. After experimenting with the software BuildAR, I have realized how versatile and useful Augmented Reality is, and how it is likely to change technology in the near future.

Utilizing a variety of programs including, sketch up, 3DS Max, Photoshop and BuildAR I was able to complete this assignment in an effective and efficient manner. Part of designing on the computer is to use the best software for the particular job, transferring the current project to different programs to complete certain phases of the assignment. I felt I was able to do this effectively.

The dwelling from my creature was inspired by Norman Foster’s contemporary architectural structures, displaying an array of rooms joined by unique staircases. To reflect the creature’s, Froggo, personality, I constructed the dwelling to resemble that of a maze with multiple paths to take through the structure. This idea of having multiple paths was inspired by Norman Foster’s building ‘The Gherkin’ in which a web of steel holds up the structure. 

As well as using Norman Foster’s designs as inspiration for the dwelling, I also took note of Froggo’s personality and tried to reflect that in the dwelling structure. In keeping with Froggo’s amphibious nature, the dwelling is located in the water of a rainforest, with half the structure above water and the other half underwater. This allows Froggo to sleep in his underwater cavern while still having the option to move up to the higher levels to get out of the water.

Throughout the assignment I also faced some minor difficulties regarding the BuildAR program. When making the markers, I was not originally aware that the black border needed to be half the width of the white square which prevented BuildAR from detecting the marker properly. 

After this problem had been fixed, I was able to finish the assignment without any further issues.