Lifecycle city is an interactive augmented reality project, based on data provided by SCEnAT and researchers at The University of Sheffield and developed by Field. Designed to spark the interest of children around the world in Materials Science and sustainability, users are required to build a city across ten years and discover the impact that their decisions have on the population, their health and the environment.
The app has been launched at an international event in London and is due to be rolled out across schools nationally. SCEnAT have also received interest in taking the app overseas to developing countries to encourage children to think about ideas such as recycling, town planning, science and research.
To set the tone for the app we enlisted the help of illustrator Geo Law, whose use of vibrant colour and youthful characters work to build a playful, dynamic world. This collection of illustrations provided a base for our designers to create engaging three-dimensional sculptures which a user can place in their city and watch it grow.
The project combines complex logic and gamification through Unity, with dynamic and colourful 2D and 3D visuals to create an educational experience to be enjoyed in and out of the classroom.
SCEnAT AR App – Users select what buildings to add to their cities
SCEnAT AR App – Map view
SCEnAT AR App – Once the city has started to be built, users can see it in real time 3D augmented reality
SCEnAT AR App – A final report helps educate users on their actions over the 10 years of their city
