Augmented Reality (AR) glasses, or Mixed Reality headsets as Apple calls them, represent a remarkable leap forward in wearable technology. With their potential for endless expandability, these devices promise a future of immersive computing powered by gesture- and voice-based controls through onboard sensors and cameras. Yet despite their promise, AR glasses remain a niche product, unable to replace smartphones, laptops, or gaming consoles as everyday tools.

South Korean designer Sun-il Kim believes the issue lies in the unintuitive nature of current gesture and voice commands. Public usage can be awkward, and the lack of physical controls hinders adoption. His innovative solution? Cylin, a cylindrical portable PC that integrates AR glasses with a tactile controller, delivering a seamless and intuitive user experience.

What Is Cylin?

Cylin is a compact cylindrical device that combines the functionality of a portable PC with the immersive capabilities of AR glasses. Designed for maximum portability and versatility, Cylin seeks to address the usability issues of AR technology while maintaining its futuristic appeal.

The device comes as a complete package:

•AR Glasses: Lightweight, high-resolution glasses that project virtual screens and interfaces into the user’s field of view.

•Controller: A sleek, cylindrical handheld device that serves as a physical interface for navigating and interacting with the AR environment.

Design and Functionality

Cylindrical PC Core

The cylindrical design of Cylin is both aesthetic and practical. Its compact form factor makes it easy to carry, while its ergonomic shape ensures a comfortable grip. The device houses powerful computing hardware, offering a seamless performance that rivals traditional PCs.

AR Glasses

The AR glasses are the centerpiece of the Cylin system. Equipped with advanced displays, they can project virtual screens, applications, and tools directly into the user’s environment. Unlike other AR glasses, Cylin’s glasses rely less on gestures and voice commands, making them more intuitive and approachable.

Controller

The handheld cylindrical controller is a game-changer for AR technology. By reintroducing physical controls, Sun-il Kim bridges the gap between futuristic AR interfaces and familiar tactile inputs. Key features of the controller include:

•Touch-Sensitive Surface: Navigate menus and interact with virtual objects through a responsive touch interface.

•Haptic Feedback: Provides a tactile response to enhance the user experience.

•Buttons and Dials: Simple, customizable controls for precision and ease of use.

The Problem with Current AR Devices

While AR glasses and headsets offer incredible potential, they face several challenges that Cylin aims to overcome:

Awkward Gestures

Many AR systems rely on hand gestures to control interfaces. While innovative, these gestures can feel unnatural and awkward, especially in public settings.

Voice Commands

Voice-based interactions, while convenient in private spaces, can be impractical or embarrassing in noisy or public environments.

Lack of Physical Feedback

The absence of physical controls in AR systems can make navigation feel imprecise and disconnected from the real world.

Limited Adoption

Without intuitive controls, AR glasses struggle to compete with the simplicity and familiarity of smartphones and laptops.

How Cylin Solves These Issues

By incorporating a physical controller, Cylin reintroduces tactility to the AR experience, making interactions more intuitive and precise. This approach reduces the reliance on gestures and voice commands, addressing the awkwardness often associated with these methods.

The controller’s haptic feedback adds a layer of immersion, allowing users to feel as though they’re directly interacting with virtual objects. Whether you’re adjusting a virtual slider, typing on a projected keyboard, or selecting items from a menu, the tactile feedback creates a more satisfying and natural user experience.

Potential Applications

Cylin’s unique combination of AR glasses and a physical controller opens up possibilities across various fields:

Productivity

•Virtual Workspaces: Create multiple virtual screens for multitasking, eliminating the need for bulky monitors.

•Collaborative Tools: Use AR-enhanced tools for team meetings, brainstorming sessions, and real-time editing.

Gaming

•Immersive Gaming Experiences: Play games in AR with intuitive controls, enhanced by haptic feedback.

•Portable Consoles: Take your gaming setup anywhere, with no need for a traditional screen or bulky hardware.

Education

•Interactive Learning: Use AR to explore 3D models, conduct experiments, or visualize complex concepts.

•Virtual Classrooms: Engage in immersive educational experiences that feel real and interactive.

Creative Industries

•Design and Prototyping: Manipulate 3D models in real space with precise controls.

•Art and Music: Use virtual tools to create artwork, compose music, or edit media in AR.

Sustainability and Accessibility

Cylin’s compact design and modular approach make it a sustainable choice compared to traditional PCs and AR setups. Its small size minimizes material use, while the integration of AR glasses reduces the need for additional screens and peripherals.

Moreover, the inclusion of physical controls makes the technology more accessible, catering to users who may find gestures or voice commands challenging or unappealing.

The Road Ahead

Cylin represents a new chapter in AR and portable computing, addressing the usability challenges that have limited the adoption of AR glasses. By blending futuristic technology with practical design, Sun-il Kim has created a concept that feels both revolutionary and familiar.

As AR technology continues to evolve, Cylin could pave the way for a new era of wearable computing—one that balances innovation with intuition, making advanced technology accessible to all.

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