System and method for dynamically loading region-based augmented reality content

Abstract

An augmented reality device receives beacon signals within a geographic area from beacons that facilitate determining the distance between the device and the corresponding beacon. The device sends a beacon-related signal indicating the beacon signal to a server, and the server determines the area of ​​the device. The server determines a marker within the area of ​​the device, and sends a marker signal associated with the marker and augmented reality content to the device. The device scans the area and outputs content associated with the marker identified by the device based on the marker signal. When the device enters a subsequent area, the device receives additional beacon signals from additional beacons, sends additional beacon-related signals, and receives additional marker signals and content. If there is insufficient storage space on the device to store additional marker signals and content, the device deletes the previous marker signal and associated content. The device stores additional marker signals and content.

Description

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 62 / 843,968, filed on May 6, 2019, entitled “SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR DYNAMICALLY LOADING REGION-BASED AUGMENTED REALITY CONTENT,” which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety for all purposes. Background Art

[0003] The present disclosure relates generally to augmented reality, and more particularly to dynamically loading region-based augmented reality content based on positioning information (eg, a set of spatial images or visual markers).

[0004] This section is intended to introduce the reader to various technical aspects that may be related to various aspects of the present disclosure, which are described and / or claimed below. This discussion is considered to help provide the reader with background information to facilitate a better understanding of the various aspects of the present disclosure. Therefore, it is understood that these statements will be read from this perspective, rather than as an admission of the prior art.

[0005] An augmented reality device may include, for example, a headwear or eyewear device that overlays a real-world environment with computer-generated content (e.g., images (including real-time rendered images and / or three-dimensional representations or objects), audio data, tactile data, etc.). The augmented reality device may use, for example, a camera to identify visual markers in the real environment, and output augmented reality content corresponding to the visual markers, so that the desired augmented reality content is output at the intended space. However, due to the size of the augmented reality content and the visual markers, the augmented reality device may only be able to store enough visual markers and augmented reality content to provide an augmented reality experience for a limited space (e.g., providing an augmented reality experience for up to a few rooms in a house). It is now recognized that a system and / or method for providing augmented reality over a larger or wider area is ideal. Summary of the invention

[0006] Certain embodiments corresponding in scope to the originally claimed subject matter are summarized below. These embodiments are not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure, but rather, these embodiments are intended only to provide a brief summary of certain disclosed embodiments. In fact, the present disclosure may include a variety of forms that may be similar or different from the embodiments set forth below.

[0007] In particular, in one embodiment, an augmented reality system includes a beacon that sends a beacon signal to an augmented reality device located in a geographic area. The augmented reality system also includes an augmented reality content management server that receives the beacon-related signal from the augmented reality device, determines a tag and augmented reality content associated with the tag based in part on the beacon-related signal, and sends a tag signal indicating the tag and the augmented reality content to the augmented reality device. The tag (which may be one of a group of tags) is located in the geographic area and can be recognized by a camera of the augmented reality device. The augmented reality system further includes an augmented reality device communicatively coupled to the beacon and the augmented reality content management server. The augmented reality device includes a camera, a display, and a controller having a processor and a memory. The processor receives a beacon signal from the beacon when executing instructions stored on the memory, and sends a beacon-related signal to the augmented reality content server based on the beacon signal. The processor also: receives a tag signal and augmented reality content from the augmented reality content management server; uses a camera to scan the geographic area; identifies a tag in the geographic area; and outputs the augmented reality content on the display in response to identifying the tag.

[0008] In another embodiment, an augmented reality device includes: a camera; a display; a marker recognition logic that uses the camera to recognize a marker within a geographic area; a content output logic that outputs augmented reality content on the display; and a controller having a processor and a memory. The processor, when executing instructions stored on the memory, receives a beacon signal from a beacon within the geographic area, sends a beacon-related signal to an augmented reality content management server based on the beacon signal, receives a marker signal indicating a marker and augmented reality content from the augmented reality content management server based on the beacon-related signal, directs the marker recognition logic to scan the geographic area, recognizes a marker within the geographic area, and directs the content output logic to output augmented reality content on the display in response to recognizing the marker.

[0009] In yet another embodiment, a tangible, non-transitory computer-readable medium includes instructions for dynamically loading region-based augmented reality content. The instructions, when executed by a processor, cause the processor to: receive a beacon signal from a beacon within a geographic region, send a beacon-related signal indicating the beacon signal to an augmented reality content management server, receive a tag signal indicating a marker within the geographic region and augmented reality content associated with the tag signal from the augmented reality content management server based on the beacon-related signal, scan the geographic region for the tag, and output augmented reality content associated with the tag in response to identifying the tag within the geographic region. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0010] These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the present disclosure will become better understood when the following detailed description is read with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which like characters refer to like parts throughout the drawings, and in which:

[0011] Figure 1 is a perspective view of an augmented reality system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0012] Figure 2 According to the embodiment of the present disclosure Figure 1 Block diagram of the augmented reality system;

[0013] Figure 3 is a flow chart illustrating a method for dynamically loading region-based augmented reality content according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0014] Figure 4 The present invention is a method for facilitating dynamic loading of region-based augmented reality content according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 2 A flowchart of a method for managing an augmented reality content server; and

[0015] Figure 5 The method for updating a mark according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is described. Figure 2 A flowchart of a method for managing an augmented reality content server. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0016] One or more specific embodiments will be described below. In order to provide a concise description of these embodiments, not all features of the actual implementation are described in the specification. It should be appreciated that in the development of any such actual implementation, as in any engineering or design project, many implementation-specific decisions must be made to achieve the developer's specific goals that may vary from implementation to implementation, such as compliance with system-related constraints and business-related constraints. In addition, it should be appreciated that such development efforts may be complex and time consuming, but for ordinary technicians who benefit from this disclosure, such development efforts will be nothing more than a routine task of design, fabrication, and manufacturing.

[0017] When introducing elements of various embodiments of the present disclosure, the articles "a," "an," and "the" are intended to mean that there are one or more of the elements. The terms "comprising," "including," and "having" are intended to be inclusive, and mean that there may be additional elements in addition to the listed elements. In addition, it should be understood that references to "one embodiment" or "an embodiment" of the present disclosure are not intended to be interpreted as excluding the existence of additional embodiments that also incorporate the recited features.

[0018] The present disclosure generally relates to augmented reality, and more particularly to dynamically loading region-based augmented reality content. A plurality of beacons may be dispersed throughout a physical environment. An augmented reality device may receive beacon signals within a geographic region of a physical environment from beacons that facilitate determining a distance between the augmented reality device and the corresponding beacon. The augmented reality device may send a beacon-related signal indicating the beacon signal to an augmented reality content management server, and the augmented reality content management server may determine the region of the augmented reality device based on the beacon-related signal. The augmented reality content management server may then determine a marker at or near the region of the augmented reality device. The augmented reality content management server may send a tag signal indicating the tag and augmented reality content associated with the tag to the augmented reality device. The augmented reality device may scan the region and, in response to identifying the tag based on the tag signal, output augmented reality content associated with the tag.

[0019] When the augmented reality device enters a subsequent geographic area of ​​the physical environment, the augmented reality device may receive additional beacon signals from beacons at the subsequent geographic area, send additional beacon-related signals based on the additional beacon signals, and receive additional tag signals and augmented reality content based on the additional beacon-related signals. If there is not enough storage space on the augmented reality device (e.g., in the form of volatile memory (such as random access memory (RAM)), non-volatile memory (such as flash memory), or a combination of both) to store additional tag signals and augmented reality content, the augmented reality device may delete the previous tag signal and the associated augmented reality content. The augmented reality device may then store the additional tag signal and augmented reality content. For example, the augmented reality device may delete the earliest stored tag signal and augmented reality content or the stored tag signal and augmented reality content associated with the geographic area of ​​the physical environment farthest from the current area of ​​the augmented reality device. The augmented reality device may then scan the current area for tags associated with the additional tag signals and output the additional augmented reality content. As such, the augmented reality device can continuously store marker signals and augmented reality content associated with the current region of the augmented reality device, scan for relevant markers associated with newly uploaded marker signals, and output appropriate and newly uploaded augmented reality content. In this way, region-based augmented reality content can be dynamically loaded and provided even for large or wider regions with augmented reality content that the augmented reality device may typically not have sufficient storage space to store.

[0020] As an introduction, Figure 11 is a perspective view of an augmented reality system 10 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The augmented reality system 10 includes an augmented reality device 12, which may be any suitable electronic device that overlays a real-world environment with computer-generated content (e.g., images, audio data, tactile data, etc.) or augmented reality content. For example, the augmented reality device 12 may include a display 13 that enables a user to view a real-world environment while overlaying an image on the view. As such, the augmented reality device 12 may include glasses, a headset, a head-up display, contact lenses, a virtual retinal display, EyeTap, a handheld display, a spatial augmented reality system, Google products, and the like. In some embodiments, the augmented reality device 12 may include a user's smartphone or mobile communication device. The user may raise his smartphone, which may use its camera to show the real-world environment and display augmented reality content on top of the displayed real-world environment. In some cases, the smartphone may be mounted to a headset or goggles so that the user does not have to use his hands to raise the smartphone to be able to enjoy the augmented reality environment. In alternative or additional embodiments, augmented reality device 12 may include an audio output component (eg, a speaker, headphones, earphones, etc.) and / or a tactile output component (eg, a vibration component, a motion generating component, a glove, etc.).

[0021] As illustrated, a user operates an augmented reality device 12 in a first geographic area or location 14 (e.g., a first geographic area or location 14 of a theme park or entertainment venue). In the first geographic area 14, the augmented reality system 10 may include one or more beacons 16. The beacons 16 may facilitate determining the geographic area of ​​the augmented reality device 12. In particular, each beacon 16 may transmit a beacon signal to the augmented reality device 12 that may provide an indication of the distance between the beacon 16 and the augmented reality device 12. The beacon signal may be transmitted to the augmented reality device 12 using any suitable communication protocol (such as, Bluetooth, WiFi, infrared, Ethernet, Thread, ZigBee, Z-Wave, KNX, mobile, etc.). The geographic area may include, for example, a range or measurement of a location (e.g., a 20-foot radius of the location), one or more rooms of a building, one or more floors or one or more floors of a building, one or more rooms and / or one or more floors or a portion of one or more floors of a building, and the like.

[0022] In some embodiments, the beacon signal may include a timestamp (e.g., a timestamp of when the beacon 16 transmitted the beacon signal), and the distance between the beacon 16 and the augmented reality device 12 may be determined based on the known or predetermined speed of the beacon signal and the timestamp (e.g., determined by the augmented reality device 12). In some cases, a single beacon 16 may be used to determine the approximate geographic area of ​​the augmented reality device 12 (e.g., within a radius of the beacon 16). In other cases, multiple beacons 16 may be used to more accurately determine the geographic area of ​​the augmented reality device 12 (e.g., via triangulation or other location determination techniques).

[0023] The beacon signal may also or alternatively include an identifier, such as a region identifier (e.g., associated with the first geographic region 14). As such, the beacon signal may enable the augmented reality device 12 to determine the region in which the augmented reality device 12 is located based on the region identifier. In some embodiments, the beacon signal may include a timestamp, version code, and / or checksum to indicate the current associated mapping set, thereby enabling the augmented reality device 12 to determine whether the current mapping set associated with the beacon signal is the most recent. For example, each mapping set may include an expiration timestamp for the augmented reality device 12 to compare with the timestamp, version code, and / or checksum. If the augmented reality device 12 determines that the associated mapping set of the beacon signal is out of date, the augmented reality device 12 may re-query the latest mapping set. In addition, although Figure 1 The beacons 16 shown in FIG. 1 are illustrated as being located outside, but the beacons 16 may also be located inside a building (e.g., one or more beacons 16 in each room of a building), on different floors of a building, etc. In additional or alternative embodiments, the use of beacons 16 may be supplemented with any other suitable location determination technology (such as a global positioning system (GPS), WiFi mapping, cellular signal triangulation, etc.) to, for example, reduce the number of beacons 16 used to determine the geographic area of ​​the augmented reality device 12.

[0024] The augmented reality device 12 may be communicatively coupled to the augmented reality content management server 18 via, for example, the communication network 20. In some embodiments, the augmented reality device 12 may send a beacon signal sent by the beacon 16 or a beacon-related signal indicating the beacon signal to the augmented reality content management server 18. The beacon-related signal may be generated by the augmented reality device 12 to include information of the beacon signal associated with locating the augmented reality device 12. In some embodiments, the beacon-related signal may include a combination of at least a portion of the beacon signal. The augmented reality content management server 18 may then determine the geographic region of the augmented reality device 12. In an alternative or additional embodiment, the augmented reality device 12 may determine the region based on the beacon signal and then send a location signal indicating the geographic region to the augmented reality content management server 18. The augmented reality content management server 18 may store, access, or retrieve tag information corresponding to the determined region of the augmented reality device 12 and augmented reality content associated with the tag information. The augmented reality content management server 18 may then send the tag information (e.g., as a tag signal) and the associated augmented reality content to the augmented reality device 12.

[0025] The tag information may include any suitable information for identifying, describing, or indicating a spatial image or visual tag or label 22 within a geographic area of ​​the augmented reality device 12. For example, the tag information may include image recognition information, barcode or quick response (QR) code information, etc. The tag or label 22 may include any suitable identifier that enables the augmented reality device 12 to recognize the tag 22. For example, the tag 22 may include a visual identifier such as a poster, a graphic, a design, a shape, a shape of a wall or ceiling, a pattern on a wall or ceiling, a barcode, a QR code, etc. The camera 24 of the augmented reality device 12 may scan the area and use the tag information to identify the tag 22. In response to identifying the tag 22, the augmented reality device 12 may output augmented reality content 26 associated with the tag. The augmented reality content 26 may include any suitable content that the augmented reality device 12 may output, such as image content, audio content, tactile content (e.g., vibration content), etc. For example, augmented reality content may include creatures flying around (e.g., interacting with scenery and / or guests), locations where water pipes are buried or where electrical wiring is located in walls for maintenance purposes, and so on.

[0026] like Figure 1As illustrated in FIG. 1 , when the augmented reality device 12 is within the first geographic area 14, the marking information sent by the augmented reality content management server 18 indicates a marker 22, which is a window frame. The augmented reality content management server 18 also sends augmented reality content 26 associated with the marker 22 illustrated as a ghost (illustrated in dotted lines). When the user looks around the first geographic area 14, the camera 24 scans the first geographic area 14 and identifies the marker 22 (e.g., the window frame). The augmented reality device 12 outputs (e.g., displays) the augmented reality content 26 (e.g., the ghost) associated with the marker 22.

[0027] The augmented reality device 12 may store the tag information (associated with the tag 22) and the associated augmented reality content 26. As such, during a subsequent viewing of the tag 22 (e.g., window frame) by the augmented reality device 12, the augmented reality device 12 may once again output the augmented reality content 26 (e.g., phantom) without having to download the tag information and the associated augmented reality content 26 from the augmented reality content management server 18.

[0028] Figure 1 A second geographic area or location 28 is also illustrated. The second area 28 may also include one or more beacons 30. In some cases, one or more of the beacons 30 within the second geographic area 28 may be shared with one or more of the beacons 16 of the first geographic area 14. In other cases, the beacons 30 within the second area 28 may not include any of the beacons 16 within the first geographic area 14. Each beacon 30 may transmit a beacon signal to the augmented reality device 12 that may provide an indication of the distance between the beacon 30 and the augmented reality device 12. The augmented reality device 12 may transmit a beacon-related signal indicative of the beacon signal transmitted by the beacon 16 to the augmented reality content management server 18. The augmented reality content management server 18 may then determine the area of ​​the augmented reality device 12 (e.g., the second geographic area 28). In alternative or additional embodiments, the augmented reality device 12 may determine the area based on the beacon signal and then transmit a location signal indicative of the area to the augmented reality content management server 18.

[0029] The augmented reality content management server 18 may send tag information associated with the second geographic area 28 and the augmented reality content 26 associated with the tag information to the augmented reality device 12. As illustrated, when the augmented reality device 12 is within the second geographic area 28, the tag information sent by the augmented reality content management server 18 indicates a tag 32 that is a railroad crossing gate. The augmented reality content management server 18 also sends augmented reality content 34 associated with the tag 32 illustrated as a train (illustrated in dotted lines). As the user looks around the second geographic area 28, the camera 24 scans the second geographic area 28 and identifies the tag 32 (e.g., a railroad crossing gate). The augmented reality device 12 outputs (e.g., displays) the augmented reality content 34 associated with the tag 32 (e.g., a train). Although in Figure 1 Only one tag (e.g., 22, 32) is illustrated within each region (e.g., 14, 28), but it should be understood that each geographic region may include any suitable number of tags (e.g., 1-1000 tags, 1-100 tags, 1-10 tags, etc.).

[0030] The augmented reality device 12 may store tag information (associated with the tag 32) and associated augmented reality content 34. Since the augmented reality device 12 has limited storage space, previously stored information may be deleted to make room for the tag information (associated with the tag 32) and the associated augmented reality content 34. The augmented reality device 12 may use any suitable algorithm to determine what previously stored information should be deleted. For example, the augmented reality device 12 may delete the oldest stored tag information and associated augmented reality content. As another example, the augmented reality device 12 may delete the tag information and associated augmented reality content corresponding to the geographic area or location farthest from the current area of ​​the augmented reality device. As yet another example, the augmented reality device 12 may delete the least frequently used tag information and associated augmented reality content because the user may be less likely to be returning to the corresponding area. In any case in which previously stored data is deleted, the augmented reality device 12 can store the marker information (associated with the marker 32) and the associated augmented reality content 34, and, during a subsequent viewing of the marker 32 (e.g., a railroad crossing gate) by the augmented reality device 12, the augmented reality device 12 can once again output the augmented reality content 34 (e.g., a train) without having to download the marker information and the associated augmented reality content 26 from the augmented reality content management server 18.

[0031] In an alternative or additional embodiment, the augmented reality device 12 may initially store previously stored information in a first (e.g., volatile memory device) memory (such as RAM), and, when the augmented reality device 12 determines that there is insufficient storage space in the first memory to store the new tag information and / or associated augmented reality content 34, the augmented reality device 12 may cause the previously stored information to be moved to a second (e.g., non-volatile memory device) memory, such as a hard drive or flash memory device. In such an embodiment, the new tag information and / or associated augmented reality content 34 may then be quickly loaded from the first (e.g., volatile memory device) memory. If the augmented reality device 12 returns to the initial location associated with the previously stored information, the augmented reality device 12 may then quickly reload the previously stored information from the second memory into the first memory, rather than downloading it again from the augmented reality content management server 18.

[0032] Considering the above, Figure 2 According to the embodiment of the present disclosure Figure 1 1 is a block diagram of an augmented reality system 10. The augmented reality device 12 may include a controller 50 having one or more processors (illustrated as a single processor 52) and one or more memory or storage devices (illustrated as a single memory device 54). The processor 52 may execute software programs and / or instructions stored in the memory device 54, which facilitate dynamically loading region-based augmented reality content. In addition, the processor 52 may include multiple microprocessors, one or more "general-purpose" microprocessors, one or more dedicated microprocessors, and / or one or more application-specific integrated circuits (ASICS). For example, the processor 52 may include one or more reduced instruction set (RISC) processors. The memory device 54 may store information such as control software, lookup tables, configuration data, and the like. The memory device 54 may include tangible non-temporary machine-readable media, such as volatile memory (e.g., random access memory (RAM)), non-volatile memory (e.g., read-only memory (ROM)), flash memory, one or more hard disk drives, and / or any other suitable optical storage medium, magnetic storage medium, or solid-state storage medium. The memory device 54 may store a variety of information and may be used for a variety of purposes.

[0033] The augmented reality device 12 may include a communication device 56 that enables the controller 50 to communicate with any suitable communication network 20. For example, the communication network 20 may include a local area network, a metropolitan area network, a wide area network, a wireless network, and / or an interconnected network or the Internet. As such, the communication device 56 may communicate with the network 20 using any suitable communication protocol (such as WiFi, infrared, Ethernet, Bluetooth, Thread, ZigBee, Z-Wave, KNX, mobile, etc.).

[0034] The augmented reality device 12 also includes a camera 24 (which may be part of a collection of multiple cameras of the augmented reality device 12), which may be any suitable image capture or scanning device. The camera 24 may be used to facilitate outputting augmented reality content (e.g., 26) and scanning an area (e.g., 14) for markers (e.g., 22). The augmented reality device 12 may also include a display 13, which may enable a user to view a real-world environment while overlaying augmented reality content on the view.

[0035] The augmented reality device 12 may also include a marker recognition logic 58 that facilitates recognizing a marker (e.g., 22) within an area (e.g., 14). In particular, the marker recognition logic 58 may receive marker information from the augmented reality content management server 18 (e.g., via the communication device 56 on the communication network 20) ​​corresponding to the marker, receive one or more images of the area from the camera 24, and determine a geographic area of ​​the marker in the one or more images based on the marker information.

[0036] The augmented reality device 12 may also include content output logic 60 that facilitates outputting augmented reality content (e.g., 26) to, for example, the display 13 of the augmented reality device 12. In particular, the content output logic 60 may receive the augmented reality content from the augmented reality content management server 18 (e.g., via the communication device 56 over the communication network 20) ​​associated with the marker (e.g., 22), receive one or more images of the area (e.g., 14) from the camera 24, an indication of the area of ​​the marker in the one or more images (e.g., from the marker recognition logic 58), and output (e.g., display) the augmented reality content on the augmented reality device 12 (e.g., on the display 13).

[0037] As used in this disclosure, the term "logic" may include hardware (e.g., circuitry), software (e.g., machine-readable instructions), or a combination of both. Figure 2The tag recognition logic 58 and / or content output logic 60 are illustrated as being separate from other components of the augmented reality device 12, but it is contemplated that the tag recognition logic 58 and / or content output logic 60 may be part of other components of the augmented reality device 12, such as being part of and / or stored in the controller 50, processor 52 and / or memory device 54 and / or being part of the augmented reality content management server 18.

[0038] The communication device 56 may enable the augmented reality device 12 to communicate with the augmented reality content management server 18 via the communication device 62 of the augmented reality content management server 18 and the communication network 20. The communication device 62 may communicate with the network 20 using any suitable communication protocol, such as WiFi, infrared, Ethernet, Bluetooth, Thread, ZigBee, Z-Wave, KNX, mobile, etc.

[0039] The augmented reality content management server 18 may also include a controller 64 having one or more processors (illustrated as a single processor 66) and one or more memory or storage devices (illustrated as a single memory device 68). The processor 66 may execute software programs and / or instructions stored in the memory device 68 that facilitate management of tag information and / or augmented reality content. In addition, the processor 66 may include multiple microprocessors, one or more "general purpose" microprocessors, one or more special purpose microprocessors, and / or one or more ASICS. For example, the processor 66 may include one or more RISC processors. The memory device 68 may store information such as control software, lookup tables, configuration data, and the like. The memory device 68 may include tangible, non-transitory machine-readable media, such as volatile memory (e.g., RAM, non-volatile memory (e.g., ROM), flash memory, one or more hard disk drives, and / or any other suitable optical storage medium, magnetic storage medium, or solid-state storage medium. The memory device 68 may store a wide variety of information and may be used for a variety of purposes.

[0040] The augmented reality content management server 18 may include geographic region determination logic 70 that facilitates determining a geographic region or location based on receiving beacon-related signals. In particular, the geographic region determination logic 70 may be communicatively coupled to a geographic region database 72 that stores information that associates regions with beacons. The geographic region database 72 may also store maps in which regions and / or beacons are located. In such a case, the augmented reality content management server 18 may determine the geographic region of the augmented reality device 12 and the distance to other regions. In this manner, the augmented reality content management server 18 may determine the region from which the augmented reality device 12 is farthest. The augmented reality content management server 18 may delete the tag information and the associated augmented reality content from the memory device 54 to create storage space for storing new tag information and the associated augmented reality content.

[0041] In alternative or additional embodiments, the geographic region database 72 may be in the form of a table or any other suitable format that associates regions with beacons. As such, the geographic region determination logic 70 may receive one or more beacon-related signals from the augmented reality device 12 and determine the geographic region using the geographic region database 72 based on the beacon-related signals. For example, the geographic region database 72 may include information that associates a first geographic region 14 with a first group of beacons 16. The geographic region determination logic 70 may receive a beacon-related signal generated based on receiving a beacon signal from the beacon 16 from the augmented reality device 12, and use the geographic region database 72 to determine that the augmented reality device 12 is located within the first region 14 based on the beacon-related signal associated with the beacon 16. In some embodiments, the augmented reality device 12 may include the geographic region determination logic 70, which may use the geographic region database 72 to determine the region of the augmented reality device 12 based on receiving the beacon signal, and send the region to the augmented reality content management server 18.

[0042] The augmented reality content management server 18 may include a marker determination logic 74 that facilitates determining markers located within a geographic region or location. In particular, the marker determination logic 74 may be communicatively coupled to a marker database 76 that stores information that associates markers with regions. In alternative or additional embodiments, the marker database 76 may be in the form of a table or any other suitable format that associates markers with regions. As such, the marker determination logic 74 may receive an indication of a region (e.g., from the geographic region determination logic 70) and use the marker database 76 to determine one or more markers located in the region based on the indication. For example, the marker database 76 may include information that associates a marker 22 (e.g., a window frame) with a first region 14. The marker determination logic 74 may receive an indication of the first geographic region 14 from the geographic region determination logic 70 and use the marker database 76 to determine a marker 22 disposed within the first geographic region 14 based on the indication.

[0043] The augmented reality content management server 18 may also include content determination logic 78 that facilitates determining augmented reality content as output corresponding to the tag. In particular, the content determination logic 78 may be communicatively coupled to a content database 80 that stores information that associates augmented reality content with the tag. The content database 80 may also store augmented reality content, such as images, videos, audio, and / or tactile data associated with enabling a user to experience a creature flying overhead. In alternative or additional embodiments, the content database 80 may be in the form of a table or any other suitable format that associates augmented reality content with a tag. As such, the content determination logic 78 may receive an indication of a tag (e.g., from the tag determination logic 74) and, based on the indication, use the content database 80 to determine the augmented reality content associated with the tag (e.g., should be output associated with the tag). For example, the content database 80 may include information that associates augmented reality content 26 (e.g., a phantom) with a tag 22 (e.g., a window frame). The content determination logic 78 may receive an indication of the marker 22 from the marker determination logic 74 and, based on the indication, determine the augmented reality content 26 associated with the marker 22. In some cases, the content determination logic 78 may also determine positioning information for the augmented reality content (e.g., information associated with where and / or how to output or display the augmented reality content associated with, for example, a marker).

[0044] The augmented reality content management server 18 may then send an indication of the marker and the associated augmented reality content to the augmented reality device 12, which may use the marker recognition logic 58 to scan for the marker based on the indication and, when the marker is recognized, use the content output logic 60 to output (e.g., display) the augmented reality content (e.g., on the display 13). In the case where there are multiple markers in the area in which the augmented reality device 12 is located, the augmented reality content management server 18 may associate the respective augmented reality content with the respective marker (e.g., by providing an indication that the respective augmented reality content is associated with the respective marker). In this way, the system 10 may dynamically load the region-based augmented reality content 26.

[0045] The augmented reality content management server 18 may include update logic 82 that facilitates updating the geographic region database 72, the tag database 76, and / or the content database 80. For example, when beacons are added, removed, or modified from different geographic regions, the update logic 82 may update the geographic region database 72. In this manner, the geographic region database 72 may be made current with respect to associating regions with beacons.

[0046] The update logic 82 may also update the tag database 76 when a tag is added, removed, or modified. For example, a tag for which associated augmented reality content is output may include a poster on a wall that may be removed. A new tag may be added or identified for the associated augmented reality content to be output, and thus updated in the tag database 76 by the update logic 82. As illustrated, the update logic 82 may be communicatively coupled to one or more sensors 84, which may determine whether a tag is added, removed, or modified. In particular, the sensor 84 may include a camera having a view of an area (e.g., 14) in which a tag (e.g., 22) is located. The sensor 84 may include a camera (e.g., a security camera) placed or fixed in or within the viewing distance of the area, a camera manually operated by an employee (e.g., a theme park employee) who maintains or manages the area, and / or a camera of a mobile communication device (e.g., a smartphone) of an augmented reality device 24 or a user (e.g., a theme park customer). The update logic 82 may use the sensor 84 to determine that a tag has been removed, and use the sensor 84 to determine a replacement tag. The replacement tag may be any suitable tag that can be used to determine where and how to output the associated augmented reality content. Figure 1If the window frame marker 22 is removed, the update logic 82 can use the sensor 84 (e.g., a security camera) to determine that the window frame marker 22 has been removed and determine that the roofline 86 should be used as a replacement marker. The update logic 82 can update the marker database 76 to replace the window frame marker 22 with the roofline marker 86, and update the content database 80 to associate the augmented reality content 26 (e.g., ghost) with the roofline marker 86 (instead of the previously associated window frame marker 22). In this way, the marker database 76 can be made current with respect to the markers within the geographic area, and the content database 80 can be made current with respect to the relationship between the augmented reality content and the markers. In addition, the marker database 76 can be initially set by having a mounted or fixed camera (e.g., 84) and / or an employee manually using a camera (e.g., 24) of a smartphone and / or augmented reality device 12) to pre-scan the area to capture the markers (e.g., 22) and the marker locations (e.g., when theme park patrons are not present). In some cases, this pre-scan procedure may be repeated periodically (eg, daily, weekly, or monthly) before or after there is traffic in the area (eg, before a theme park opens or after a theme park closes).

[0047] The update logic 82 may also update the content database 80 when augmented reality content is added, removed, or modified. In this manner, the content database 80 may be current with respect to associating augmented reality content with tags. In some embodiments, the update logic 82 may update the geographic region database 72, the tag database 76, and / or the content database 80 when regions, tags, and / or augmented reality content are added, removed, and / or modified. In alternative or additional embodiments, the update logic 82 may update the geographic region database 72, the tag database 76, and / or the content database 80 periodically (e.g., hourly, daily, weekly, etc.).

[0048] Figure 3 1 is a flowchart illustrating a method 100 for dynamically loading region-based augmented reality content according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The method 100 may be implemented by any suitable device (such as the processor 52) that may dynamically load region-based augmented reality content. Although the method 100 is described using steps performed in a specific order, it should be understood that the present disclosure contemplates that the steps described may be performed in an order different from that described, and that some of the steps described may be skipped or not performed in their entirety. In some embodiments, the method 100 may be implemented by using a processor (such as the processor 52) to execute instructions stored in a tangible, non-transitory computer-readable medium (such as the memory device 54).

[0049] As illustrated, in process block 102, processor 52 receives a beacon signal within a geographic area. Figure 1 , the processor 52 may be part of the augmented reality device 12, and receives a beacon signal from a beacon 16 within the first geographic area 14. In process block 104, the processor 52 sends a beacon-related signal indicative of the beacon signal to the augmented reality content management server 18. In some embodiments, the processor 52 may instead send the beacon signal itself (rather than a beacon-related signal derived from the beacon signal) to the augmented reality content management server 18.

[0050] In process block 106, the processor 52 receives augmented reality content and a tag signal indicating a tag at a geographic region from the augmented reality content management server 18 based on the beacon-related signal. In particular, based on receiving the beacon-related signal, the augmented reality content management server 18 may determine the geographic region (e.g., first region 14) of the augmented reality device 12 using the geographic region determination logic 70 and the geographic region database 72. The augmented reality content management server 18 may then determine a tag (e.g., tag 22) in the region based on the region using the tag determination logic 74 and the tag database 76. The augmented reality content management server 18 may further determine the augmented reality content (e.g., phantom 26) associated with the tag based on the tag using the content determination logic 78 and the content database 80. The augmented reality content management server 18 may send the tag signal (e.g., indicating the tag) and the associated augmented reality content to the augmented reality device 12.

[0051] In decision box 108, processor 52 determines whether there is enough storage space to store the tag signal and the associated augmented reality content. For example, processor 52 may determine whether there is enough space in memory device 54. If not, in process box 110, processor 52 deletes the previous tag signal and / or the associated augmented reality content. Processor 52 may use any suitable algorithm to determine what previous tag signal and / or the associated augmented reality content should be deleted. For example, augmented reality device 12 may delete the earliest stored tag information and the associated augmented reality content. As another example, augmented reality device 12 may delete the tag information and the associated augmented reality content corresponding to the geographical area or location farthest from the current area or location of the augmented reality device. As another example, augmented reality device 12 may delete the least frequently used tag information and the associated augmented reality content because the user may be unlikely to be returning to the corresponding area. Processor 52 then returns to decision box 108 to determine whether there is enough storage space to store the tag signal and the associated augmented reality content after deleting the previous tag signal and / or the associated augmented reality content.

[0052] In process block 112, the processor 52 stores the marker signal and the associated augmented reality content. For example, the processor may store the marker signal and the associated augmented reality content in the memory device 54.

[0053] In process block 114, processor 52 scans the area for markers associated with the marker signal. Figure 1 In the embodiment of the present invention, the processor 52 may direct the camera 24 of the augmented reality device 12 to scan the first area 14 for a landmark 22 (eg, a window frame).

[0054] In decision block 116, the processor 52 determines whether the marker has been identified. If not, the processor 52 continues to scan the area for markers in process block 114. Once the marker has been identified, in process block 118, the processor 52 outputs augmented reality content associated with the identified marker. Return to Reference Figure 1 When the user looks around the first area 14, the processor 52 uses the camera 24 to scan the first area 14, identifies the marker 22 in the form of a window frame, and outputs the augmented reality content 26 in the form of a ghost to the display 13 of the augmented reality device 12. In some embodiments, the processor 52 receives the positioning information together with the marker signal and the augmented reality content indicating where or how to output the augmented reality content. For example, in Figure 1 In the embodiment, the processor 52 may receive the positioning information together with the marker signal indicating the marker 22 and the augmented reality content 26 to display the augmented reality content 26 (e.g., phantom) within the marker 22 (e.g., window frame) on the augmented reality device 12. In this way, the method 100 may dynamically load the region-based augmented reality content 26.

[0055] Figure 4 The present invention is a method for facilitating dynamic loading of region-based augmented reality content according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 2 18. The method 130 may be performed by any suitable device that may facilitate dynamically loading region-based augmented reality content, such as the processor 66 of the augmented reality content management server 18. Although the method 130 is described using steps that are performed in a specific order, it should be understood that the present disclosure contemplates that the steps described may be performed in an order different from that illustrated, and that some of the steps described may be skipped or not performed in their entirety. In some embodiments, the method 130 may be implemented by using a processor, such as the processor 66, to execute instructions stored in a tangible, non-transitory computer-readable medium, such as the memory device 68.

[0056] As illustrated, in process block 132, the processor 62 receives a beacon-related signal from the augmented reality device 12. In particular, the beacon-related signal may indicate a beacon signal transmitted by a beacon and received by the augmented reality device 12. In some embodiments, the processor 62 may instead receive the beacon signal itself from the augmented reality device 12 (rather than a beacon-related signal derived from the beacon signal).

[0057] In process block 134, the processor 62 determines the geographic region of the augmented reality device 12 based on the beacon-related signals. In particular, the augmented reality content management server 18 may use the geographic region determination logic 70 to determine the region of the augmented reality device 12 based on the beacon-related signals and the geographic region database 72 (which stores information correlating regions with beacons).

[0058] In process block 136, processor 62 determines a marker at the area. In particular, augmented reality content management server 18 may use marker determination logic 74 to determine a marker within the area of ​​augmented reality device 12 based on the marker determined in process block 134 and marker database 76 (which stores information associating markers with areas).

[0059] In process block 138, the processor 62 determines the augmented reality content associated with the tag. In particular, the augmented reality content management server 18 may use the content determination logic 78 to determine the augmented reality content associated with the tag determined in process block 134 and the content database 80 (which stores information associating the augmented reality content with the tag).

[0060] In process block 140, the processor 62 then sends a marker signal indicative of the marker determined in process block 134 and the associated augmented reality content determined in process block 138 to the augmented reality device 12. In this manner, the method 130 may enable the augmented reality content management server 18 to facilitate dynamic loading of region-based augmented reality content.

[0061] Figure 5 is a method for updating a mark (eg, 22) according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 218. The method 150 may be performed by any suitable device that can update a tag, such as the update logic 82 and / or the processor 66 of the augmented reality content management server 18. Although the method 150 is described using steps that are performed in a specific order, it should be understood that the present disclosure contemplates that the steps described may be performed in a different order than that illustrated, and that some of the steps described may be skipped or not performed in their entirety. In some embodiments, the method 150 may be implemented by using a processor, such as the processor 66, to execute instructions stored in a tangible, non-transitory computer-readable medium, such as the memory device 68.

[0062] As illustrated, in process block 152, the update logic 82 receives an indication to update the markers within the geographic area. The indication may be received as part of an asynchronous operation (e.g., triggered because a marker has been added, removed, or modified) or as part of a synchronous operation (e.g., triggered due to a periodic update of the markers within the area). As an example, referring back to Figure 1 , the update logic 82 may receive an indication to update the indicia 22 (eg, window frame) within the first region 14 because, for example, the indicia 22 has been removed.

[0063] In process block 154, the update logic 82 determines the available sensors within the geographic area. Figure 1 , the update logic 82 may determine that the sensor 84 (eg, a security camera) is an available sensor within the first area 14 . Similarly, the update logic 82 may determine that the camera 24 of the augmented reality device 12 is an available sensor within the first area 14 .

[0064] In process block 156, the update logic 82 directs the available sensors to determine or capture replacement markers for the markers within the geographic area. The replacement markers may be any suitable markers that may be used to determine where and how to output the associated augmented reality content. Again, as an example, using Figure 1 If the window frame indicia 22 has been removed, the update logic 82 may use the security camera sensor 84 to determine that the top outline 86 should be used as a replacement indicia.

[0065] In process block 158, the update logic 82 replaces the marker with a replacement marker. In particular, the update logic 82 may update the marker database 76 to replace the previous marker with the replacement marker, and update the content database 80 to associate the augmented reality content previously associated with the previous marker with the replacement marker. In this manner, the marker database 76 may be made current with respect to the markers within the region, and the content database 80 may be made current with respect to the relationship between the augmented reality content and the markers. Using the previous example, the update logic 82 may update the marker database 76 to replace the window frame marker 22 with the top outline marker 86, and update the content database 80 to associate the augmented reality content 26 (e.g., a ghost) with the top outline marker 86 (instead of the previously associated window frame marker 22). In this way, the method 150 may enable the augmented reality content management server 18 to update markers when they are added, removed, or modified.

[0066] Although the embodiments illustrated in the present disclosure may be susceptible to various modifications and alternative forms, specific embodiments have been shown by way of example in the accompanying drawings and have been described in detail herein. However, it should be understood that the present disclosure is not intended to be limited to the specific forms disclosed. The present disclosure will cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives that fall within the spirit and scope of the present disclosure as defined by the following appended claims.

[0067] The technology presented and claimed herein is cited and applied to substantial objects and specific examples of a practical nature that arguably improve the art and are therefore not abstract, intangible, or purely theoretical. Moreover, if any claim appended at the end of this specification contains one or more elements designated as "means for [performing] ... [function]" or "step for [performing] ... [function]," it is intended that such elements will be interpreted in accordance with 35 USC 112(f). However, for any claim containing elements designated in any other manner, it is intended that such elements will not be interpreted in accordance with 35 USC 112(f).

Claims

1. An augmented reality system, include: an augmented reality device comprising a camera, a display, and a controller, wherein the augmented reality device is located within a geographic area; one or more beacons configured to transmit one or more beacon signals to the augmented reality device located within the geographic area; and An augmented reality content management server configured to: receiving one or more beacon-related signals from the augmented reality device; determining a marker and augmented reality content associated with the marker based at least in part on the one or more beacon-related signals, wherein the marker is located within the geographic area and is configured to be recognizable by the camera of the augmented reality device; receiving an instruction to update the marking; In response to receiving the indication to update the marker, selecting a replacement marker from a plurality of markers in the geographic area; and sending a marking signal indicating the replacement marking and the augmented reality content associated with the replacement marking to the augmented reality device; wherein the augmented reality device is configured to be communicatively coupled to the one or more beacons and the augmented reality content management server; and The controller of the augmented reality device includes one or more processors and one or more memory devices, wherein the one or more processors are configured to: receiving the one or more beacon signals from the one or more beacons and sending the one or more beacon-related signals to the augmented reality content management server based at least in part on the one or more beacon signals; receiving the marking signal and the augmented reality content from the augmented reality content management server; scanning the geographic area using the camera; identifying the replacement marker within the geographic area; and In response to identifying the replacement marker, the augmented reality content associated with the replacement marker is output on the display by overlaying the augmented reality content associated with the replacement marker on a real-world environment.

2. The augmented reality system according to claim 1, in, The augmented reality content management server is configured to receive the one or more beacon-related signals from the augmented reality device and to determine the geographic region of the augmented reality device based at least in part on the one or more beacon-related signals.

3. The augmented reality system according to claim 1, in, The augmented reality content management server is communicatively coupled to a geographic region database configured to store information correlating a plurality of geographic regions with a plurality of beacons.

4. The augmented reality system according to claim 1, in, The augmented reality content management server is configured to determine the replacement marker based at least in part on the geographic region of the augmented reality device.

5. The augmented reality system according to claim 1, in, The augmented reality content management server is communicatively coupled to a tag database configured to store information relating a plurality of tags to a plurality of geographic regions.

6. The augmented reality system according to claim 1, in, The augmented reality content management server is configured to determine the augmented reality content based at least in part on the replacement marker.

7. The augmented reality system according to claim 6, in, The augmented reality content management server is communicatively coupled to a content database configured to store information associating a plurality of augmented reality contents with the plurality of markers.

8. The augmented reality system according to claim 1, in, The augmented reality content management server is configured to replace the marker with the replacement marker by associating the augmented reality content with the replacement marker in a content database configured to store information relating a plurality of augmented reality contents to the plurality of markers.

9. The augmented reality system according to claim 1, in, The augmented reality content management server is configured to determine the replacement mark by the following steps: determining available sensors located within the geographic area; as well as The available sensors are directed to determine replacement markers within the geographic area.

10. The augmented reality system according to claim 9, in, The available sensor is separate from the augmented reality device.

11. An augmented reality device, include: camera; monitor; and A controller comprising one or more processors and one or more memory devices, wherein the one or more processors, when executing instructions stored on the one or more memory devices, are configured to: receiving one or more beacon signals from one or more beacons within a geographic area; and sending one or more beacon-related signals to an augmented reality content management server based at least in part on the one or more beacon signals, wherein the augmented reality content management server is configured to: Storing augmented reality content; receiving an instruction to update a mark; In response to receiving the indication to update the marker, determining the replacement marker from a plurality of markers in the geographic area by determining an available sensor located in the geographic area and directing the available sensor to determine a replacement marker in the geographic area; and sending a marking signal indicating the replacement marking and the augmented reality content to the augmented reality device; receiving, from the augmented reality content management server, the marker signal indicating the replacement marker and the augmented reality content based at least in part on the one or more beacon-related signals; scanning the geographic area and identifying the replacement marker within the geographic area using the camera; and The augmented reality content is output on the display by overlaying the augmented reality content on a real-world environment in response to identifying the replacement marker.

12. The augmented reality device according to claim 11, in, The one or more processors are configured to determine whether there is sufficient storage space in the one or more memory devices to store the marking signal and the augmented reality content in the one or more memory devices, and are configured to store the marking signal and the augmented reality content in the one or more memory devices in response to determining that there is sufficient storage space in the one or more memory devices.

13. The augmented reality device according to claim 11, in, The one or more processors are configured to delete previously stored tag information associated with a second geographic area, delete previously stored augmented reality content associated with the second geographic area, or both in response to determining that there is insufficient storage space in the one or more memory devices, the second geographic area being farthest from the geographic area of ​​the augmented reality device.

14. The augmented reality device according to claim 11, in, The one or more processors are configured to delete a least frequently used previously stored marker signal, a least frequently used previously stored augmented reality content, or both in response to determining that sufficient storage space does not exist in the memory device.

15. The augmented reality device of claim 11, wherein the augmented reality content management server is configured to select the replacement marker from the plurality of markers in the geographic area.

16. A tangible, non-transitory computer-readable medium comprising instructions for dynamically loading region-based augmented reality content, in, When executed by one or more processors, the instructions cause the one or more processors to perform the following operations: receiving a set of beacon signals from a set of beacons within a geographic area; sending a set of beacon-related signals indicative of the set of beacon signals to an augmented reality content management server, wherein the augmented reality content management server is configured to: Storing augmented reality content; receiving an instruction to update a mark; In response to receiving the indication to update the indicia, selecting a replacement indicia from a plurality of indicia in the geographic area; as well as sending a marking signal indicating the replacement marking and the augmented reality content to an augmented reality device; receiving, from the augmented reality content management server, the marker signal indicating the replacement marker within the geographic area and the augmented reality content associated with the replacement marker based at least in part on the set of beacon-related signals; scanning said geographic area for said replacement marker; as well as The augmented reality content associated with the replacement marker is output by overlaying the augmented reality content on a real-world environment in response to identifying the replacement marker within the geographic area.

17. The tangible, non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 16, comprising instructions that cause the one or more processors to determine whether sufficient storage space exists to store the marker signal indicating the replacement marker and the augmented reality content associated with the replacement marker.

18. The tangible, non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 16, comprising instructions that cause the one or more processors to store the marker signal indicative of the replacement marker and the augmented reality content associated with the replacement marker in response to determining that sufficient storage space exists.

19. The tangible, non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 16, comprising instructions that cause the one or more processors to delete previously stored tag information associated with a second geographic area, delete previously stored augmented reality content associated with the second geographic area, or both, wherein the second geographic area is separate from the geographic area.

20. The tangible, non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 19, comprising instructions that cause the one or more processors to: determine whether there is sufficient storage space to store the marker signal indicating the replacement marker and the augmented reality content associated with the replacement marker after deleting the previously stored marker information associated with the second geographic area, after deleting the previously stored augmented reality content associated with the second geographic area, or both, and store the marker signal indicating the replacement marker and the augmented reality content associated with the replacement marker in response to determining that there is sufficient storage space.

21. An augmented reality device, include: monitor; as well as at least one processor configured to: receiving at least one beacon signal from at least one beacon in the geographic area; Sending at least one beacon-related signal to an augmented reality content management server based on the at least one beacon signal, wherein the augmented reality content management server is configured to: receiving an instruction to update a mark; determining the replacement marker from a plurality of markers in the geographic area by causing a sensor to determine the replacement marker; as well as sending a marking signal indicating the replacement marking and augmented reality content associated with the replacement marking to the augmented reality device; receiving, from the augmented reality content management server based on the at least one beacon-related signal, the marker signal indicating the replacement marker and the augmented reality content associated with the replacement marker; scanning the geographic area and identifying the replacement markers within the geographic area; as well as In response to identifying the replacement marker, the augmented reality content associated with the replacement marker is output on the display by overlaying the augmented reality content associated with the replacement marker on a real-world environment.

22. The augmented reality device of claim 21, comprising a camera, wherein the at least one processor is configured to: causing the camera to scan the geographic area; and The replacement marker is identified based on causing the camera to scan the geographic area.

23. The augmented reality device of claim 21, wherein the at least one processor is configured to receive the augmented reality content from the augmented reality content management server.

24. The augmented reality device of claim 21, wherein the at least one processor is configured to output the augmented reality content on the display by overlaying the augmented reality content on a real-world environment.

25. The augmented reality device of claim 21, wherein the at least one processor is configured to output the augmented reality content on the display in response to identifying the replacement marker.

26. An augmented reality content management server, include: a communication device configured to be communicatively coupled to an augmented reality device; as well as A controller configured to: receiving a first indication to update a marker among a plurality of markers in a geographic area; determining the replacement marker from the plurality of markers in the geographic area by causing a sensor to determine the replacement marker; as well as A second indication of the replacement marker and augmented reality content associated with the replacement marker are sent to the augmented reality device to enable the augmented reality device to identify the replacement marker within the geographic area and output the augmented reality content on a display.

27. The augmented reality content management server of claim 26, wherein the communication device is configured to be communicatively coupled to a marker database storing the plurality of markers.

28. The augmented reality content management server of claim 26, wherein the augmented reality content management server is configured to store the augmented reality content in a content database.

29. The augmented reality content management server of claim 28, wherein the augmented reality content management server is configured to send the augmented reality content to the augmented reality device using the communication device.

30. The augmented reality content management server of claim 26, wherein the controller is configured to identify the sensor, and wherein causing the sensor to determine the replacement marker is based on identifying the sensor.

31. The augmented reality content management server of claim 26, wherein the controller is configured to determine that the sensor is available, and wherein causing the sensor to determine the replacement marker is based on determining that the sensor is available.

32. The augmented reality content management server of claim 26, wherein the controller is configured to determine the replacement marker from the plurality of markers in the geographic area in response to receiving the first indication to update the marker.

33. The augmented reality content management server of claim 26, wherein the controller is configured to: receiving at least one beacon-related signal from the augmented reality device; and The marker and augmented reality content associated with the marker are determined based on the at least one beacon-related signal.

34. The augmented reality content management server of claim 26, wherein the controller is configured to: receiving at least one beacon-related signal from the augmented reality device; and The geographic area is determined based on the at least one beacon-related signal.

35. One or more tangible, non-transitory machine-readable media comprising instructions for dynamically loading region-based augmented reality content, wherein the instructions, when executed by one or more processors, cause the one or more processors to: receiving an indication to update a marker among a plurality of markers in a geographic area; determining the replacement marker from the plurality of markers in the geographic area by causing a sensor to determine the replacement marker; as well as A marker signal indicating the replacement marker and augmented reality content associated with the replacement marker are sent to an augmented reality device so that the augmented reality device can recognize the replacement marker within the geographic area and output the augmented reality content on a display.

36. One or more tangible, non-transitory machine-readable media according to claim 35, comprising instructions that cause the one or more processors to determine whether there is sufficient storage space to store the marker signal indicating the replacement marker and the augmented reality content associated with the replacement marker.

37. One or more tangible, non-transitory machine-readable media according to claim 35, comprising instructions that cause the one or more processors to store a marker signal indicating the replacement marker and augmented reality content associated with the replacement marker in response to determining that sufficient storage space exists.

38. One or more tangible, non-transitory machine-readable media according to claim 35, comprising instructions that cause the one or more processors to delete previously stored tag information associated with a second geographic area, delete previously stored augmented reality content associated with the second geographic area, or both, wherein the second geographic area is separated from the geographic area.

39. One or more tangible, non-transitory machine-readable media according to claim 38, comprising instructions that cause the one or more processors to determine whether there is sufficient storage space to store the marker signal indicating the replacement marker and the augmented reality content associated with the replacement marker after deleting the previously stored marker information associated with the second geographic area, after deleting the previously stored augmented reality content associated with the second geographic area, or both, and store the marker signal indicating the replacement marker and the augmented reality content associated with the replacement marker in response to determining that there is sufficient storage space.

40. One or more tangible, non-transitory machine-readable media according to claim 35, comprising instructions that cause the one or more processors to replace the marker with the replacement marker by associating augmented reality content previously associated with the marker with the replacement marker in a content database, wherein the content database is configured to store information that associates multiple augmented reality contents with the multiple markers.

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