Collaborative work with volumetric data using augmented reality

The augmented reality videoconferencing system is a novel remote collaboration tool combining a desktop-based AR system and a videoconferencing module. The novelty of our system is the combination of these tools i.e. superimposing AR applications on live video background displaying the conference parties´ real environment, thus merging the advantages of videoconferencing (natural face-to-face communication) and AR (interaction with distributed virtual objects using tangible physical artifacts). We demonstrate the system´s collaborative features with a volume rendering application that allows users to display and examine volumetric data simultaneously and to highlight or explore slices of the volume by manipulating an optical marker as a cutting plane interaction device.