Senior’s hologram software could be used to augment reality

News – The Daily Cougar By Isabel Pen March 22, 2017

James can manipulate the size and position of a hologram — in this case, a three-dimensional topographic map. |  Courtesy of Evan James
Wearing a bulky version of La Forge’s visor from “Star Trek,” a man pinches and pulls the air in front of him; behind the lens of his futuristic goggles, reality is altered.
University of Houston mechanical engineering senior Evan James is developing software for a device that creates an immersive augmented reality experience. The Microsoft HoloLens can be used to aid engineers in visualizing and interacting with their ideas in three-dimensional space.
“HoloLens is the true and most superior first-generation mixed-reality device that projects for a user a layer of relevant information on top of the physical objects or environment,” said computer science research assistant professor Chang H. Yun.
The technology enables the wearer to see holographic versions of objects or people and view them from all angles as if they were in the same room.
“As a mechanical engineer, it’s all about developing technology that can help our work process,” James said. “So, what I’ve built is a holographic topographical map of the Gulf of Mexico to visualize where the oil pockets are.”
James is no stranger to getting creative with technology; his creative insights were recognized after making it to the finals in the U.S. Microsoft Imagine Cup 2015. Windows Insiders, a select group of developers given the first opportunity to experiment with new Microsoft technology, invited James to be a member.
Once approved, James received a developer edition of the Microsoft HoloLens in order to begin designing applications to see the technological world in a whole new dimension.
Though James uses the wearable computer to generate three-dimensional models of the ocean floor, he says the applications of this technology are limitless.
“Right now, the field is taking off,” said ...


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