In purely virtual experiments, students interact with simulations through clicking or touching some widgets on the screen that represent physical variables. Mixed-reality experiments replace these graphical widgets with multisensory inputs (such as light, warmth, or pressure) that are semantically integrated with virtual and physical elements. This technology could help students build stronger mental associations of perceived facts and visualized concepts. The following YouTube videos show some prototypes.
Experiments
Mixed-Reality Natural Convection on an LCD Display: Heat Rises
Requirements:
Two surface temperature sensors,
a LabQuest Mini interface,
an LCD display, hot water, cups, a computer
Setup:
The first sensor (connected to Channel 1 of the LabQuest Mini) measures the ambient temperature,
the second sensor (connected to Channel 2) at the lower edge of the display.
Command:
RunMRNaturalConvection
Mixed-Reality Natural Convection on an LCD Display: Cold Sinks
Requirements:
Two surface temperature sensors,
a LabQuest Mini interface,
an LCD display, ice cubes, cups, a computer
Setup:
The first sensor (connected to Channel 1 of the LabQuest Mini) measures the ambient temperature,
the second sensor (connected to Channel 2) at the upper edge of the display.
Command:
RunMRNaturalConvection
Mixed-Reality Forced Convection on an LCD Display
Requirements:
Two surface temperature sensors,
an anemometer,
a LabQuest Mini interface,
an LCD display, a hair dryer, a computer
Setup:
The first temperature sensor (connected to Channel 1 of the LabQuest Mini) measures the ambient temperature,
the second temperature sensor (connected to Channel 2) at the left edge of the display, the anemometer (connected
to Channel 3) at the left edge of the display.
Command:
RunMRConvectiveFlow
Mixed-Reality Gas Laws on an LCD Display
Requirements:
A surface temperature sensors,
a force sensor,
a LabQuest Mini interface,
an LCD display, hot water, ice cubes, cups, a computer
Setup:
The temperature sensor (connected to Channel 1 of the LabQuest Mini) at the right edge of the display measures the temperature,
the force sensor (connected to Channel 2) at the left edge measures the pressure.
Command: TBD
Mixed-Reality Electrical Currents on an LCD Display
Requirements:
A voltage sensor,
a LabQuest Mini interface,
an LCD display, an AA battery, electrical wires, a light switch, a computer
Setup:
The voltage sensor is connected to Channel 1 of the LabQuest Mini. The black lead of the voltage sensor is connected to the negative electrode through a wire. The
read lead is connected to the positive electrode through a wire with a light switch inbetween.
Command: TBD
