Building and Documenting a Reproducible Low-Cost Open-Source Optical See-Through AR Headset for Computing Education (Work in Progress)
Author:
Ben Khant ’27Co-Authors:
Faculty Mentor(s):
SingChun Lee, Computer ScienceFunding Source:
James L.D. and Rebecca Roser Research FundAbstract
Students in introductory computer science courses often struggle to understand how algorithms and data structures evolve over time, as traditional flat-screen visualizations require learners to mentally track abstract state changes, limiting spatial and embodied engagement. Augmented reality (AR) offers a promising way to make these processes visible and interactive, yet existing optical see-through head-mounted displays are often too costly for widespread classroom adoption.
To address this barrier, this project focuses on building and systematically documenting a low-cost, open-source optical see-through AR headset for computing education. Inspired by Project North Star, we adapt and refine an existing open-source design with an emphasis on accessibility, reproducibility, and classroom deployment. The system incorporates modular 3D-printed structural components, commodity micro-displays and driver boards, and a repeatable optics calibration workflow based on checkerboard alignment patterns to correct distortion and misalignment.
A working hardware prototype has been constructed, and we will share detailed documentation including a reproducible bill of materials, wiring diagrams, 3D-printable models, and step-by-step assembly and calibration procedures. The calibration workflow includes representative results and troubleshooting guidance to support replication. While interactive AR software is still under development, this work establishes a transparent and replicable foundation that lowers financial and technical barriers for educators seeking to adopt optical see-through AR systems in computing classrooms.