Stadium Roary AR
F1rst Night is a recent addition to FIU's tradition list, designed to greet students with a dynamic kickoff to their university journey. Held on first night of the Fall semester at the FIU Stadium field, the event features a vibrant amalgamation of a barbeque, games, and a diverse array of activities. With the intention of making the event even more special, the organizers sought to integrate an AR component for the University that would resonate with stadium attendees and allow them to capture photos during various FIU stadium events.
Conceptualization of AR Experience
As part of the event planning, the challenge of developing an AR experience was presented to enhance the excitement of F1rst Night and other events that take place in FIU Stadium. Considering the evening timing of the event, a concept emerged to craft an AR scene centered around a grand evening fireworks display, accompanied by a KING KONG sized version of FIU's beloved mascot, Roary. Attendees would be able to control Roary's placement and movements through an intuitive interface. The AR environment would be illuminated by a spectacular fireworks display, creating a dynamic and visually captivating spectacle.
Technological Implementation
To bring this AR vision to life, a comprehensive technological solution was needed. The project leveraged the capabilities of Niantic's 8th Wall platform, which facilitates web-based AR experiences. This decision was rooted in the desire to provide a seamless experience without requiring attendees to download a separate application. This facilitated accessibility and provided a hassle-free pathway for users to engage with the AR content.
Integration of 3D Scanning
One of FIU's strengths lies in its volumetric studio equipped with advanced 3D scanning technology. This resource was tapped to meticulously scan the university's mascot, Roary, in high fidelity. The 3D scanned model of Roary was then processed and seamlessly integrated into the AR filter, ensuring a lifelike and captivating presence within the virtual environment.
Conclusion
The integration of Augmented Reality into Stadium events at Florida International University added an extra layer of excitement and interactivity for attendees. By combining innovative technologies, 3D scanning, and a dynamic AR scene, the event achieved its aim of creating a memorable and engaging experience. The successful execution of this project showcases the potential of leveraging AR to enhance and elevate university traditions, leaving a lasting impression on students' academic journeys.
Client:FIU Student Campus Life
Role:AR EngineerContent StrategistUX DesignerProject Manager3D Modeler
Tools: 8th Wall Adobe After Effects Adobe Photoshop Cinema4D
Development:A-FrameCSSJavascript