Augmented Reality Mode

Complete guide to using AR features to view chemistry models in your physical space

Overview

RALQ’s Augmented Reality (AR) mode allows you to project 3D molecular structures and laboratory instruments into your real-world environment using your device’s camera. This immersive experience enhances understanding of molecular scale and spatial relationships.

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Device Requirements

Compatible Devices

iOS Devices

Minimum Requirements:

• iPhone 6S or newer
• iOS 12 or later
• ARKit support (built-in on compatible devices)
• Safari or Chrome browser

Recommended:

• iPhone 8 or newer for optimal performance
• iOS 14+ for latest AR features
• At least 2GB free storage
• Active internet connection for initial model load

Android Devices

Minimum Requirements:

• Android 7.0 (Nougat) or later
• ARCore support (check compatibility at arvr.google.com/arcoredevices)
• Chrome browser version 79+
• Minimum 3GB RAM

Recommended:

• Android 9.0+ for best performance
• Recent flagship or mid-range device (2019+)
• Google Play Services for AR installed
• At least 2GB free storage

Tablets

iPad:

• iPad (5th generation) or newer
• iPad Air 2 or newer
• iPad mini 4 or newer
• All iPad Pro models
• iPadOS 12+

Android Tablets:

• ARCore-compatible tablets
• 10” screen recommended for better viewing
• Android 8.0+ preferred
• Samsung Galaxy Tab S6+ or equivalent

Desktop computers and laptops do not support AR mode. You must use a mobile device with camera and AR capabilities.

Checking Compatibility

1. Check AR Support

   For Android:

   • Visit https://developers.google.com/ar/devices
   • Search for your device model
   • Verify ARCore support status

   For iOS:

   • All iPhones from 6S onward support ARKit
   • Check Settings → General → About for iOS version
2. Verify Browser Support

   RALQ’s AR features work with:

   • Safari (iOS) - native support
   • Chrome (Android) - Scene Viewer
   • Chrome (iOS) - Quick Look integration

   Ensure your browser is updated to the latest version.

3. Check Camera Permissions

   • Go to device Settings
   • Navigate to App permissions or Privacy
   • Ensure camera access is allowed for your browser

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Launching AR Mode

1. Navigate to a Model

   From the RALQ main menu:

   • Select “Estructuras Moleculares” for molecular structures
   • Or choose a Laboratory section for instrument models
   • Browse the available 3D models
2. Locate AR Button

   On each model card, find the blue button labeled:

   • “Ver en Realidad Aumentada” (View in Augmented Reality)
   • Located at the bottom of the card
   • Below the model name and formula
3. Launch AR Experience

   Click/tap the AR button:

   • iOS: Opens Quick Look AR viewer
   • Android: Launches Scene Viewer
   • Both: May prompt for camera permission on first use

   The model loads in AR-ready format with placement controls.

4. Grant Camera Access

   If prompted:

   • Tap “Allow” when browser requests camera access
   • Required for AR functionality
   • One-time permission (saved for future use)

RALQ uses external AR platforms (MyWebAR) for hosting AR experiences. Each model links to a specific AR project URL.

AR Launch Examples

Water Molecule (H₂O)

AR URL: https://mywebar.com/p/Project_2_y08cdw22dd

What to Expect:

• Small-scale molecular model
• Two white hydrogen atoms
• One red oxygen atom
• Angular bonding structure
• Rotatable and scalable in AR space

Caffeine (C₈H₁₀N₄O₂)

AR URL: https://mywebar.com/p/Project_0_lui6nsi9y3

What to Expect:

• Complex organic structure
• Multiple atom colors representing elements
• Larger model requiring more space
• Detailed molecular bonds visible

Microscope (Laboratory Equipment)

AR URL: https://mywebar.com/p/Project_1_f3ia9uedar

What to Expect:

• Full-scale or scaled laboratory instrument
• Detailed components visible
• Larger footprint than molecular models
• Table or desk placement recommended

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Placing Models in Your Space

Initial Placement

1. Scan Your Environment

   When AR mode launches:

   • Move your device slowly side-to-side
   • Point camera at flat surfaces (floor, table, desk)
   • The device detects horizontal planes automatically
   • White dots or grid appear when surface is detected
2. Position the Model

   • A transparent preview of the model appears
   • Move device to adjust preview position
   • Aim for a flat, stable surface
   • Ensure adequate space around the model
3. Confirm Placement

   • Tap the screen to place the model
   • The model “locks” to the detected surface
   • Now fully visible and interactive
   • Remains in position as you move around it
4. Walk Around

   • Physically move around the model
   • View from different angles
   • Get closer or further away
   • Crouch down for eye-level views

For best results, place models on:

• Tables or desks (for small molecular models)
• Floor (for larger laboratory equipment)
• Well-lit, textured surfaces (not mirrors or glass)
• Areas with at least 6 feet of surrounding space

Surface Detection Tips

Improving Surface Detection

If surfaces aren’t being detected:

• Improve Lighting: Ensure room is well-lit (natural or artificial)
• Add Texture: Plain white surfaces are harder to detect; use textured areas
• Move Slowly: Rapid movement confuses the AR system
• Angle Camera Down: Point at 30-45° angle to floor/table
• Clean Lens: Fingerprints or smudges reduce detection accuracy
• Avoid Reflective Surfaces: Glass, mirrors, and polished metal don’t work well

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Adjusting Model Size and Position

Scaling Models

iOS (Quick Look)

Pinch Gesture:

• Place two fingers on model
• Spread apart to make larger
• Pinch together to make smaller
• Scale maintains proportions

Rotation:

• Swipe horizontally to rotate around Y-axis
• Two-finger twist to rotate around Z-axis
• Tilt device to view from different angles

Android (Scene Viewer)

Pinch to Scale:

• Two-finger pinch gesture
• Spread to enlarge
• Pinch to shrink
• Minimum and maximum limits apply

Rotate:

• Single finger swipe to rotate
• Model pivots around vertical axis
• Walk around for side views

Move:

• Tap and hold model
• Drag to new position
• Lift finger to place

Repositioning Models

1. Lift the Model

   iOS: Tap model, then tap and hold to drag to new location

   Android: Long-press model, then drag across surfaces

2. Adjust Height

   Some AR platforms allow vertical adjustment:

   • Drag model up/down on screen
   • Or use two-finger vertical swipe
   • Useful for placing on different surfaces
3. Reset Position

   If model placement goes wrong:

   • Look for reset button (circular arrow)
   • Or exit and re-enter AR mode
   • Restart placement process

Model size and position are not saved between AR sessions. You’ll need to reposition each time you enter AR mode.

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Best Lighting and Space Conditions

Optimal Lighting

Indoor Lighting Recommendations

Best Practices:

• Brightness: Well-lit rooms (natural daylight or 400+ lux artificial light)
• Even Distribution: Avoid harsh shadows from single light sources
• Color Temperature: Neutral white light (4000-5000K) works best
• Avoid Backlighting: Don’t point camera toward windows or bright lights

Avoid:

• Very dim rooms (models may appear dark)
• Harsh directional spotlights (creates confusing shadows)
• Flashing or flickering lights (interferes with tracking)
• Strong colored lighting (affects model color accuracy)

Outdoor AR Usage

Can Work In:

• Overcast days (even, diffused light)
• Shaded outdoor areas
• Early morning or late afternoon (not midday sun)

Challenging Conditions:

• Bright direct sunlight (screen visibility issues)
• Very bright environments (camera exposure problems)
• Rapidly changing light (clouds moving)
• Nighttime without adequate artificial light

Space Requirements

Molecular Models

Minimum Space: 3 feet × 3 feet clear area

Recommended: 5 feet × 5 feet

Surface Types:

• Desk or table surface (most common)
• Floor (if viewing large molecules)
• Kitchen counter
• Coffee table

Clearance: 2 feet around model for walking and viewing from all angles

Laboratory Equipment

Minimum Space: 4 feet × 4 feet clear area

Recommended: 6 feet × 6 feet

Surface Types:

• Floor (for large equipment like microscopes)
• Large tables (for smaller instruments)
• Clear, open areas

Clearance: 3 feet around model for full circumnavigation

Safety Considerations:

• Ensure walkway is clear of obstacles
• Be aware of surroundings while moving
• Don’t use AR near stairs or elevated surfaces
• Watch for tripping hazards (cords, furniture)
• Have someone supervise if in unfamiliar spaces

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AR Interaction Features

Available Controls

Standard AR Controls

Common to All Models:

• Rotate: Swipe left/right on model
• Scale: Pinch to zoom in/out
• Move: Drag to reposition
• View from All Angles: Physically walk around

Platform-Specific:

• iOS Quick Look: Object Mode vs AR Mode toggle
• Android Scene Viewer: Screenshot capture button
• MyWebAR: May include additional UI overlays

Educational Features

1. Scale Comparison

   Place multiple models in same space:

   • Compare relative molecular sizes
   • Understand atomic scale vs lab equipment scale
   • Visualize size relationships
2. Spatial Understanding

   Use AR to comprehend:

   • 3D molecular geometry (bond angles)
   • Equipment component relationships
   • How structures exist in three dimensions
   • Spatial orientation of functional groups
3. Collaborative Learning

   Multiple people can:

   • View the same AR model simultaneously
   • Discuss from different viewpoints
   • Point out specific atoms or features
   • Share observations in real-time

Take screenshots or screen recordings of your AR sessions for notes, reports, or sharing with classmates. Most AR platforms include a built-in capture button.

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Troubleshooting AR Issues

AR Mode Won't Launch

Symptoms: AR button does nothing or shows error

Solutions:

• Verify device AR compatibility (check requirements section)
• Update browser to latest version
• Grant camera permissions in device settings
• Check internet connection (models load from external URLs)
• Restart browser and try again
• Clear browser cache and cookies
• Try a different browser (Safari on iOS, Chrome on Android)

Camera Shows Black Screen

Symptoms: AR loads but camera feed is black

Solutions:

• Check camera permissions for browser
• Close other apps using camera
• Restart device
• Clean camera lens
• Ensure camera hardware is functional (test with native camera app)
• Disable any camera privacy covers or stickers

Model Doesn't Appear

Symptoms: AR loads, camera works, but no model visible

Solutions:

• Improve lighting in room
• Move to a different surface with more texture
• Ensure sufficient space (model may be too large for area)
• Check internet connection (model may not have loaded)
• Reload the AR experience
• Try a different model to isolate the issue

Tracking Is Unstable

Symptoms: Model drifts, jumps, or doesn’t stay in place

Solutions:

• Improve lighting conditions
• Move to a surface with more visual detail
• Slow down device movement
• Avoid reflective or transparent surfaces
• Close background apps to free device resources
• Reduce model size if it’s very large
• Recalibrate by exiting and re-entering AR

Model Appears Distorted

Symptoms: Model is stretched, flattened, or incorrectly scaled

Solutions:

• Use pinch gesture to reset scale
• Exit and re-enter AR mode for fresh start
• Ensure you’re not inadvertently scaling while placing
• Check that device is held level (not tilted)
• Try placing on a different surface

Poor Performance/Lag

Symptoms: Choppy frame rate, delayed responses, overheating

Solutions:

• Close all other apps
• Reduce model complexity (choose simpler molecules)
• Lower device brightness to reduce heat
• Remove device case if overheating
• Update device OS to latest version
• Restart device to clear memory
• Use AR in shorter sessions to prevent thermal throttling

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Best Practices for AR Learning

Preparation

1. Choose Your Space

   Select a location with:

   • Good lighting (natural or artificial)
   • Flat, textured surfaces
   • Adequate space to move around
   • Minimal distractions
2. Pre-load Models

   Before starting AR:

   • View models in 3D mode first
   • Read information cards
   • Review molecular formulas and properties
   • Understand what you’re looking for
3. Prepare Device

   • Charge battery (AR drains power quickly)
   • Free up RAM by closing apps
   • Clean camera lens
   • Connect to Wi-Fi for best performance

During AR Sessions

Maximizing Educational Value

• Start Small: Begin with simple molecules (water, propane) before complex ones
• Take Time: Don’t rush; examine from all angles
• Compare: Place multiple models to compare sizes and structures
• Document: Take screenshots of interesting views or configurations
• Collaborate: Use AR with classmates to discuss structures
• Relate to Theory: Connect AR visualization to textbook concepts

Session Length

Recommended AR Session Duration:

• Optimal: 10-15 minutes per model
• Maximum: 30 minutes before taking a break (prevents device overheating and eye strain)
• Breaks: Rest eyes by looking at distant objects for 20 seconds every 5 minutes

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AR Model Library

Available Molecular Structures

Currently available in AR:

Molecule	Formula	AR Complexity	Space Needed
Water	H₂O	Simple (3 atoms)	Small (3×3 ft)
Benzyl Alcohol	C₈H₁₀O	Moderate (19 atoms)	Medium (4×4 ft)
Caffeine	C₈H₁₀N₄O₂	Complex (24 atoms)	Medium (4×4 ft)
Phenol	C₆H₅OH	Moderate (13 atoms)	Medium (4×4 ft)
Glycerol	C₃H₈O₃	Moderate (14 atoms)	Medium (4×4 ft)
Propane	C₃H₈	Simple (11 atoms)	Small (3×3 ft)

Available Laboratory Equipment

General Chemistry

AR-enabled instruments:

• Gradilla (test tube rack)
• Microscopio (microscope)
• Mortero con mano (mortar and pestle)

Note: Some general chemistry equipment may have placeholder AR links.

Instrumental Analysis

AR-enabled instruments:

• Autoclave
• Campana de extracción (fume hood)
• Centrifugadora (centrifuge)

These advanced instruments have detailed 3D models suitable for AR viewing.

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Technical Specifications

AR Platform Integration

RALQ integrates with external AR providers:

• Platform: MyWebAR (https://mywebar.com)
• Model Format: GLB (GL Transmission Format Binary)
• Rendering: WebGL-based 3D rendering
• AR Frameworks:
  • ARKit (iOS)
  • ARCore (Android)
  • WebXR Device API

Model Viewer Attributes

Each 3D model includes AR capability via the ar attribute:

<model-viewer
  src="modelos/agua.glb"
  alt="Modelo de agua"
  auto-rotate
  camera-controls
  ar
  style="width: 100%; height: 240px;"
  shadow-intensity="0"
  interaction-prompt="none">
</model-viewer>

The ar attribute enables the AR button in compatible browsers.

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Limitations and Considerations

Current AR Limitations:

• External platform dependency (requires MyWebAR access)
• Some models may have placeholder AR links
• Internet connection required for each AR session
• AR quality depends on device hardware capabilities
• Battery consumption is higher than regular 3D viewing
• Some advanced interactions may not be available in all AR modes

Privacy and Permissions:

• AR requires camera access
• Camera feed is processed locally on your device
• No images are uploaded or stored by RALQ
• MyWebAR may have its own privacy policy
• Review permissions in device settings

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Next Steps

After mastering AR mode:

• Explore all available molecular structures
• Learn about laboratory equipment in detail
• Use AR to study for exams or complete assignments
• Share AR screenshots with study groups
• Provide feedback to RALQ team for future improvements

AR is most effective when combined with traditional study methods. Use AR to visualize concepts, then reinforce learning with textbooks, notes, and practice problems.