# Augmented Reality Sandboxes This Virtual Sandbox Simulates Real Movements of Sand and Water By Laura McQuarrie | Published 2016-07-08 | Tech Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/virtual-sandbox References: [youtube](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NXD7Dfo7Ngo) & [arsandbox.org](http://arsandbox.org/) This impressive virtual sandbox created by researchers at UC Davis allows onlookers to make natural hand movements in order to create real-time changes to simulated sand and water. The dual-mode AR Sandbox is made with an [AR projection-mapped display](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/measure-tools) inside of the physical sandbox, as well as a virtual 3D view of the terrain and water on a secondary display. Just as in nature, when there is a chance for the simulated water to flow through an opening in the sand's landscape, it will virtually make its way through the new pathway in a gush. Since the Augmented Reality Sandbox works in two ways, it has the potential to become an invaluable tool for different kinds of [modeling and bringing tangible experiences](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/injection-simulator) to [virtual and augmented reality](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/tutar). ## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter) - Score: 0.7/10 - Popularity: 4% | Activity: 9% | Freshness: 8% - Audience gender: 50% men, 50% women - Primary generations: Millennial, Gen X - Top markets: North America ## Categories [Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Tech](https://www.trendhunter.com/tech) > [AI](https://www.trendhunter.com/ai) ## Key Themes ### What Makes This Trend Stand Out - **Augmented Reality Modeling:** The dual-mode AR sandbox presents an opportunity for modeling real world scenarios with augmented reality technology. - **Virtual Reality Experiences:** The AR sandbox also has potential for creating tangible virtual reality experiences. - **Natural Interaction in AR:** The natural hand movements required for the AR sandbox present a trend for more natural interaction in augmented reality systems. ### Sectors Adopting This - **Education:** The AR sandbox could revolutionize classroom learning with hands-on augmented reality experiences. - **Architecture:** Architects could use the AR sandbox for real-time modeling of building designs in augmented reality. - **Gaming and Entertainment:** The AR sandbox has potential for creating immersive augmented reality gaming and entertainment experiences. ## Related on Trend Hunter - [Immersive EdTech Platforms](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/sandbox-ar.md) - [Kinetic Artful Sand Tables](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/arrakis-30.md) - [Mixed-Reality Theme Parks](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/mixedreality-theme-park.md) - [Vacuum-Tracking AR Apps](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/ar-apps.md) - [AR 3D Model Apps](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/ar-app-for-iphone.md) - [Mixed-Reality Skateboarding Apps](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/skatrix-pro.md) - [Mesmerizing Sand Pattern Sculptures](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/crystal-sandsara.md) - [Metaverse Property Sales](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/digital-land.md) - [Premium-Quality VR Experiences](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/sandbox-vr.md)