Stare: A Toolkit for Bringing Simulation Models and Data to Augmented Reality

Stare is toolkit to use scientific data and models in augmented reality (AR). It has two parts: a Python package and an AR application. The Python package can be used to convert simulation models and data to a 3D model format for use in general 3D graphics applications. In the conversion process, the models can be modified and customised, much like a plotting library. This includes overlaying data, smoothening geometry, or applying materials to surfaces.

After conversion, the models can be imported into Stare's associated AR application to display it. A QR code encoding a description of a model can be scanned in the application to load the model, after which an image tag present in the real world is used to place the model in the correct position in the real world.

Stare is mainly intended to be used in connection with particles physics simulations of beam lines using BDSIM. In particular, it may allow for users of the experimental areas of CERN to 'see' the beam lines in person that they otherwise wouldn't be able to see due to shielding. Futher, Stare can be used in an educational setting, allowing for people not at a particle accelerator site to visualise beam lines.