New ways for accessibility through virtual and augmented reality applications in the Maritime Museum of Barcelona: PATRAC project, subproject 3

Abstract

This contribution presents an approach to the application developed within the subproject 3 "Intelligent Environments and control systems" of the PATRAC project, which describes the workflow developed from terrestrial laser scanner survey of the Maritime Museum of Barcelona, 3d model creation, and incorporation of virtual and augmented reality to improve accessibility and user experience of a museum in a wheelchair. The project proposes three innovative ways to access information: high-resolution panoramas as 2.5D, virtual reality as 3D information and smart tags through augmented reality. In this paper two processes are described, one is the construction of a high accuracy 3d model created from terrestrial laser scanner data and its theorical modelling, and two: the application of virtual reality and its interaction with physical devices. Finally conclusions on the various applications and interaction concepts raised are discussed, for the use of this technology to users with disabilities.