Augmented Reality With Wearable Computers Running Linux

This paper describes the concept of augmented reality, the process of drawing virtual images over the real world using a head mounted display. Using wearable computers, it is possible to take augmented reality software outdoors and visualise data that only exists in a computer. The paper discusses all concepts in detail, and the hardware used to build the system, explaining the various components and costs. Examples of AR applications developed by the authors are explored, showing some ideas as to what the technology could be used for. The Tinmith system is a complete software architecture designed to develop AR and other software that deals with trackers, input devices, and graphics. The design of the code is explained, including how it was developed. Tinmith is based on a completely free software system comprising the Linux kernel, GNU tools and libraries, the GNU C/C++ compiler, XFree86 graphics server, GGI graphics interface, OpenGL 3D renderer, PostgreSQL database, and Freetype font renderer.