KinectSandbox Additional Modes

We developed extra modules to expand the functionality of our software and make it more fun to use!

Geology

The all-new Geology mode is a step toward more advanced uses of the interactive sandbox. The application turns the sand into a canvas for displaying the formation and shape of geological layers. First, you define some crucial parameters on the tablet or touch screen, and then explore the sand to better understand the featured objects. Instead of just looking at a 2-dimensional cross section of a piece of land, you can dissect the land in any way you like. This unique method makes the learning process more interesting and approachable. The application requires the user to have some basic geological knowledge.

Features:

  • Adding and removing layers
  • Changing layer height
  • 2-planar tilt
  • Fold with 2-planar tilt of fold plane
  • Changing fold radius and amplitude
  • Fault with 2-planar tilt of the fault plane
  • Changing fault position and slip
  • Switchable topographic isolines

Many thanks to Alberto Marini for the idea and great contribution to the creation of this mode.

Developed in cooperation with
Alberto Marini
professor of Geography and Thematic Cartography from the University of Cagliari

Specialized:
Remote Sensing at the U.S. Geological Survey in Flagstaff AR
GIS at TAC in Albuquerque, NASA NM

 

DigQuest

Many things can be dug up from the sand. Ancient vases, pirate treasures, but also… the alphabet?

That’s right! DigQuest mode is a great example of learning through play. It combines tactile interaction with visual cognition and lots of fun. Carefully remove the sand to uncover a new letter or number every time. Tested and approved by a panel of young experts 🙂

For more adventure-hungry users we recommend the Archeology mode and the surprises it brings. Will it be a fossil or maybe a greek vase? Be careful not to spoil it! After spending hundreds or thousands of years underground, the items become fragile and will break and turn red if you dig too deep. Difficulty can be adjusted in the application settings.

Optional: you can adapt the Discovery module to better match your facility! We will prepare additional models on your demand, including real-life exhibits. Furthermore, the user interface can be re-designed for an even more satisfying fit.

Game 1: Letters

Game 2: Numbers

Game 3: Archeology

 

Graviball

The Graviball is a 3D game that you play on the sand instead of a console. The objective is to guide a virtual ball from start to finish, passing all checkpoints and avoiding obstacles along the way. To do so, you will need to shape the sand to form a track. Easy as it sounds, it turns out to be a great challenge! The ball will only run downhill, so the track needs to be well-planned. If you make it too steep, it will jump out, too flat and it gets stuck!

With endless possibilities of shaping the sand and difficulty increasing with each level, the game never fails to amuse. Gameplay: https://youtu.be/W4QfSBSuE4E

In addition to the obvious entertainment value of this module, it improves spatial awareness and teaches basic physics principles.

5 Levels to complete

Magic Worlds

Take a break from everyday life and give free rein to your imagination.

Create a virtual lagoon, idyllic atolls and peaceful beaches. You can change the terrain level as you build your paradise and go from archipelago to Atlantis in a matter of seconds! After you create the environment, land and sea creatures, such as colorful fish, will start to appear. The islands will start to blossom and tropical palms will sprout.

Feel free to visit the wonderland! 

Magic worlds:

  1. Paradise Island + Volcano
  2. Continental woods
  3. Quirky land
  4. Dinosaurs

Sandscape Secrets

The sandbox hides many secrets. The image you see at any given moment disappears to reveal another. As you remove layers of sand, you discover the unknown. Hunt for treasures, learn anatomy, and peek deeper into the world. Explore colors, create abstract collages and patterns.

The mode comes with many ready-made image packs that can be freely modified. You can also easily add your own to personalize the experience. The application automatically stacks your images and creates seamless blends. It can be used for education, games, themed applications, etc.

Since KinecSandbox v 2.5.3 the mode supports animated images!

Included packs:

  1. Moods
  2. Archaeology
  3. Human anatomy
  4. Animals
  5. Games
    and many more

Online Maps

The Online Maps mode gives a whole new meaning to an interactive map. It allows you to explore real-world locations and project an aerial view onto the sand directly from the Internet. Use the tablet or touch screen to navigate the world map. You can find your nearest neighborhood or the most remote place on earth. Try to recreate the relief in the sandbox and check the result in the Interactive Map mode.

4 types of maps included, including satellite and terrain.

With instant access to any location on the map, this mode is a great tool for schools and universities. It can be used for presenting and discussing different topographic features, studying real world locations, or even for a more in-depth case study.

Touch Screen

Touchscreen module is a software extension that allows you to control the application while it’s running via easy-to-use interface. The set of parameters available on the touchscreen will let you fully customize your sandbox and adjust it whenever needed. Some of the accessible settings will drastically improve functionality of your device, while others will make it even more fun to use!

If you decide to purchase other modules, they will also be accessible from the touchscreen’s roll-up menu.

You can read more about all touchscreen features here.

Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c5snNiwMC_Q

3D Scanner

To immediately export terrain shape data, press the “+” button on numeric keypad/keyboard. If you are using our touchscreen feature, there is an individual ‘Export’ page in the interface with a convenient export button. The saved file is .fbx format (shape without materials and textures) and has its own unique name – date and time. By default files are saved on an external flash drive.

For expert users: destination folder for saved files can be changed in ‘GlobalSettings’ file in application folder.

Exported model can be used to create 3D prints!
This module contains installation of an additional usb port.
Sample file: https://ar-sandbox.eu/download/Sandbox_2019-10-16_14-53-01.fbx