AR Anatomy Explorer for Medical Students – IT & Computer Engineering Guide
1. Project Overview
The AR Anatomy Explorer is an educational augmented reality application designed to help medical students visualize and interact with 3D anatomical structures in real space. Users can scan a flat surface or anatomical marker and explore detailed, labeled human body systems in AR, improving spatial understanding and engagement.
2. System Architecture Overview
- AR Client App: Renders interactive anatomy models and
receives user input.
- Anatomy Data Module: Stores and loads hierarchical 3D anatomy structures.
- Interaction Layer: Enables touch, gesture, or voice-based manipulation.
- Optional Cloud Backend: Syncs learning progress, quizzes, and analytics.
3. Hardware Components
|
Component |
Specifications |
Description |
|
Mobile Device/Tablet |
iOS or Android with ARKit/ARCore |
Primary device for viewing and interacting with AR content |
|
Camera |
HD RGB camera |
Captures environment for surface or marker tracking |
|
AR Marker (Optional) |
Image-based target or QR code |
Triggers specific anatomy content |
|
Optional AR Glasses |
HoloLens / Magic Leap |
Advanced hands-free AR display for institutions |
4. Software Components
4.1 Development Tools
- Game Engine: Unity 3D with AR Foundation, or Unreal Engine
- 3D Modeling Tools: Blender, ZBrush, or 3ds Max for anatomy assets
- AR SDKs: ARCore (Android), ARKit (iOS), Vuforia for marker tracking
- Backend: Firebase / Node.js / AWS for cloud syncing (optional)
4.2 Programming Languages
- C# (Unity scripting)
- Python (for data pipelines)
- JavaScript (backend/dashboard)
4.3 Libraries and Frameworks
- AR Foundation / Vuforia SDK
- DOTween / Unity UI Toolkit
- Firebase SDK for user data
- Azure TTS for voice narration (optional)
5. 3D Model Management and Optimization
- Model Types: Skeletal system, muscular system, organs,
nerves, etc.
- Optimization: LOD (Level of Detail), mesh simplification, texture
compression.
- Interactivity: Slice, rotate, zoom, isolate parts.
- Annotations: Labels with tooltips, color-coded systems, info pop-ups.
6. AR Features and Interaction Design
- Anchoring: World or marker-based anchoring of 3D models.
- Gesture Support: Pinch to zoom, swipe to rotate, tap to select.
- Voice Commands (Optional): Use voice to highlight parts.
- Exploded Views: Temporarily separate parts to show inner detail.
7. Educational Content and User Flow
- Learning Modules: Pre-built lesson plans by system (e.g.,
circulatory, digestive).
- Quiz Integration: Multiple-choice and label-matching quizzes.
- Progress Tracking: Completion indicators and history.
- Multi-language Support: Via localized UI and voice narration.
8. Backend Services (Optional)
- Authentication: Google, email login for students.
- Database: Firestore for saving module progress.
- Cloud Storage: Stores large 3D assets or updates.
- Analytics: Firebase or custom dashboards to track engagement.
9. Testing and Optimization
- Device Compatibility: AR performance on different
hardware.
- Lighting Conditions: Robust tracking in clinical or low-light rooms.
- Performance Testing: 60 FPS target, memory usage monitoring.
- Accessibility Testing: Font scaling, colorblind support, narration.
10. Deployment and Maintenance
- Platforms: iOS App Store, Google Play, Enterprise APKs.
- Updates: OTA model updates using remote asset bundles.
- Licensing Models: Free demo + premium institutional licenses.
- CI/CD: Unity Cloud Build, GitHub Actions.
11. Security and Privacy
- Data Handling: Secure user authentication and data
storage.
- FERPA/GDPR Compliance: Ensures academic privacy protection.
- Offline Mode: App functions without needing internet for basic features.
- Encryption: For saved quiz data and profiles.
12. Future Enhancements
- Haptic Feedback Integration for VR surgery demos.
- Multi-user AR Collaboration.
- AI Teaching Assistant with voice Q&A.
- Augmented Dissection Simulations.
- Integration with LMS (Learning Management Systems) like Moodle.