Technological Support for Novice Bamboo Woven Artisans: Potentials and Challenges

Weaving flat bamboo strip involves unique skills which take years to master and are often passed along from one generation or artisan to the next generation. This research is an empirical study exploring the use of technology (in particular Augmented Reality, AR, henceforth) in facilitating novice or keen bamboo weavers in learning how to weave. Two different AR interface were deployed to twenty-one designers from architecture, interior design and industrial design fields. The aim is to answer a pertinent question regarding potentials and challenges of using mobile AR in bamboo woven design process, particularly for novice designers. The analysis is two-fold: firstly, related to AR elements and secondly self-reflections of advantages and disadvantages. AR display and other AR related elements are analysed based on ratings given by participant in each interface. Insights are also extracted from the open-ended questions when participants are asked whether they would recommend these two interfaces to other designers or otherwise. The main observed potentials include the ability to see a 360-degree view of the design objects, assembly guide, being able to learn the basic process of weaving and the ability to simulate rapid design iteration. Main challenges include: accuracy, hologram colours and the benefits compared to video tutorials (which were challenged by one participant).