NU FindAR - Indoor Navigation Mapping

Indoor Navigation Mapping for Northeastern University San Francisco Bay Area campus using Augmented Reality.

Overview

Developed an AR-based indoor navigation system specifically designed for Northeastern University's SFBA campus. The application helps students, faculty, and visitors navigate complex indoor spaces using their mobile devices with augmented reality overlays.

Key Features

• AR Pathfinding: Real-time AR arrows and waypoints guide users to their destination
• Indoor Mapping: Comprehensive 3D maps of campus buildings
• Location Services: GPS and AR-based positioning for accurate indoor tracking
• ArcGIS Integration: Leveraged ArcGIS for spatial data and mapping
• Search Functionality: Easy room and location search interface
• Multi-floor Support: Navigate across multiple building floors

Tech Stack

• Platform: Unity Game Engine
• Language: C#
• AR Framework: AR Foundation / ARCore
• Mapping: ArcGIS SDK for Unity
• 3D Modeling: Blender
• Target Platform: Mobile (iOS/Android)

Technical Highlights

• Integrated ArcGIS spatial data for accurate indoor positioning
• Implemented custom pathfinding algorithm optimized for indoor spaces
• Created AR visualization system with intuitive directional indicators
• Built floor detection and automatic map switching
• Developed 3D models of campus buildings with accurate dimensions
• Optimized performance for mobile AR devices

Results

• Successfully deployed to Northeastern University SFBA campus
• Improved navigation efficiency for students and visitors
• Reduced time spent searching for classrooms and facilities
• Demonstrated practical application of AR technology in education
• Showcased expertise in AR development and GIS integration

Challenges & Solutions

Challenge: Accurate indoor positioning without GPS
Solution: Combined AR tracking with ArcGIS spatial anchors and visual markers

Challenge: Performance optimization for mobile AR
Solution: Implemented occlusion culling and LOD systems for 3D models

Challenge: User-friendly interface for AR navigation
Solution: Designed minimalist AR overlays with clear directional indicators

Challenge: Multi-floor navigation complexity
Solution: Created automatic floor detection and seamless transition system