Emerging human-toy interaction techniques with augmented and mixed reality

Abstract

In this book chapter, we will review the emerging technologies that promote extensive interactions between toys and their players. Cutting-edge display technologies have taken a major role in human-toy interaction. In particular, reality-virtuality technologies such as Augmented Reality (AR) and Mixed Reality (MR) have been adopted in digital entertainment and physical toys. With advances of portable and wearable devices, reality-virtuality technologies have become more popular and immersed into our daily life. Various interaction techniques are identified such as depth sensors and haptic devices. We will introduce example technologies, devices and products of the above technologies. However, displayed/projected virtual objects cannot give the user a sense of touch. Additional apparatus such as haptic styli are necessary to interact with the virtual objects. We foresee that in the near future, more kinds of virtual senses (such as taste) could be simulated and become part of the toy.