Augmented technical drawings: A novel technique for natural interactive visualization of computer-aided design models.

Engineering 3D models become complex that paper drawings representation and monitor/mouse navigation on a computer-aided design (CAD) system is difficult and also frustrating. We present a novel interface paradigm for natural interactive visualization. It incorporates augmented reality enhanced engineering drawings and natural and tangible interfaces. We embedded ID markers on technical drawings to provide CAD data retrieval and tangible navigation. A user gets access to the CAD navigation functions using the drawing itself as a tangible device. In addition, CAD functions are triggered with gestures recognized by a video camera. We performed a pilot test assessment with industrial engineers. The results demonstrate the feasibility and the effectiveness of these techniques.