Modern technology mixes with a long-standing children favorite pastime when Disney brings 3D magic into coloring books, and finds an innovative way to improve such a simple hobby.
- Disney has found a way to make traditional coloring books more enjoyable
- The app works in real time, updating the 3D model as the 2D sketch is being colored
- Participants have offered excellent feedback
- No release date has been confirmed yet
Studies have shown that coloring is one of the many enjoyable activities for youngsters that improves their cognitive development. It enhances imagination and provides a way of self-expression early on.
Courtesy of Disney Analysis, the upcoming app will essentially bring 3D art into coloring books. They are ready to advance into the next phase of technology. This will be applied to children, and possibly help their development even more when it comes to spatial recognition. Not to mention it will be incredibly fun to see their characters come back to life.
The research team proposed the initial design at the IEE International Symposium on Mixed and Augmented Reality this fall, releasing a short video to explain its function. The astounding mechanics behind the augmented coloring paper app and use of 3D software strays from the usual static aspect of colored characters.
How it works is through the combination of coloring paper and a tablet or smartphone app to bring the character to life. As the child colors in the 2D sketch, either device can see it being colored in its 3D form in real time through the camera. The drawing will be updated live for them to see and enjoy.
The app detects the pattern and coloring, which allows it to fully display in an animated 3D manner. By putting pen to paper, they are essentially creating a digital character they can view on the screen. The consumer will then be able to shift the camera around to get an accurate depiction of their complete work.
As the colors are filled in, the 3D model recognizes the 2D sketch and follows accordingly. The app is so exquisitely made that it will correct the unwanted patterns left behind by pencils or pens, creating a smooth texture. It will also successfully ignore the bended aspects of the page while designing the 3D model.
The app was tested and received excellent responses. It increased interest in coloring books, by providing a new and innovating way to enjoy the simple activity. Most have stated that they would use the app at home, and 83% claimed that it elevated their feeling of a ‘connection’ to the character.
It could be a highly entertaining feature for children to see their colored drawings come to life, move and dance around. With technology advancing so quickly, it seemed only a matter of time until 2D would need to take a step back.
The app is still in its research phase, and no date has been confirmed yet for release. However, it appears excitement is building up for this incredibly innovative and beautiful way to improve traditional play.
Image source: i-programmer.info
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