Project Overview

A proof of concept AR app to replace the IKEA assembly manual and simplify the self-assembly process.

Organisation

Adam Pickard

Project Context

I was impressed by the IKEA Place app which can be used t preview furniture in your home. It made me think about how this technology can be used for more complex tasks, the IKEA assemble manual seemed like the right place to start. You've got the furniture home but now you have to assemble it...

Even though the IKEA assembly manual is well-designed, people often struggle with the self-assembly. It can even get so confusing that there are now professionals that can be hired to construct your IKEA furniture for you.

The focus of this project is to experiment with the potential of this type of technology rather than presenting a finished user experience.

Project Innovation

AssembleAR keeps aspects of the original manual layout but adds animation and life-size reference that helps simplify the self-assembly process.

I began by looking at the existing manual, highlighting which parts of the self-assembly process I wanted to adjust. I modeled the various furniture parts and tools in Cinema 4D and developed a render style that referenced the original manual's appearance.

Next, I looked at what 3D elements should be positioned in the user's environment for each step - preventing the user from having to crawl or walk over to see each small detail. I enlarged aspects of that instruction in the user interface at the bottom of the screen.

I was able to put this project together using a combination of Adobe: Premiere, After Effects, Illustrator, Photoshop, Audition and Cinema 4D. Using a custom rig, I attached my camera to my iPhone and recorded from both devices at the same time. I combined both videos along with some 3D models and graphics.