Douglas A. Nelson

BodyExplorerAR: enhancing a mannequin medical simulator with sensing and projective augmented reality for exploring dynamic anatomy and physiology

BodyExplorerAR is a system designed to enhance a learners ability to explore anatomy, physiology and clinical interventions though naturalistic interaction with an augmented reality enhanced full-body mannequin simulator. We are developing a platform that integrates projective AR and multi-modal sensor inputs. A user can use an IR pen to open, resize and move viewports providing windows into the body that can display dynamic anatomy. The user can point to an organ and display additional information such as graphs of physiological parameters or heart sounds. Custom sensing systems provide natural interactions with common medical devices such as syringes, breathing tubes and catheters. A user can open a window displaying the beating heart in situ, display an electrocardiogram (ECG), then inject drugs and see and hear changes in heart rate. Our goal is an engaging experience that empowers a learner to create customized, media-rich explorations revealing the internal consequences of external actions.

Virtually Nursing: Emerging Technologies in Nursing Education.

Augmented reality and virtual simulation technologies in nursing education are burgeoning. Preliminary evidence suggests that these innovative pedagogical approaches are effective. The aim of this article is to present 6 newly emerged products and systems that may improve nursing education. Technologies may present opportunities to improve teaching efforts, better engage students, and transform nursing education.