Participatory AR: A parametric design instrument

CAAD research has frequently investigated the realm of public participation in large scale urban design re-development. Yet, the recurring problem lies with the lay-person of Ten not being able to read 2d and 3d graphic information effectively, and hence be able to participate in the process of design development proactively. To date, much-existing research focuses on developing designs for urban settings using contemporary interaction devices such as the /Hololens/; such devices, with custom interfaces, require a significant level of expertise, or an experienced 'guide', to help navigate or create within these environments. Our paper presents a novel alternative based on real-time-virtual-engines, XR, and a parametric back-end system. The paper discusses the advantages that the resulting tangible user interface (TUI) can play in the lay-person's engagement in the design process. In the paper, we describe how the integration of interaction design (IxD) and augmented reality (AR) offer new opportunities due to the increasing availability of barrier-free technologies that can better include lay-persons as active participants in the design development process.