New ‘virtual knight’ gallops into Lincoln through augmented reality app

Visitors to Lincoln’s Brayford Pool waterfront can catch a glimpse of a new ‘secret knight’ with the launch of an innovative augmented reality mobile app today (9am, Monday 7th August 2017)..

Developed by the University of Lincoln in partnership with Lincoln Business Improvement Group (BIG), the application, available free to download for Android phones, reveals a 3D image of a medieval knight galloping across the user’s screen. The image is triggered when the phone’s camera detects the secret marker located off Brayford Wharf East near to the University, on the bridge overlooking the Brayford Pool.

The appearance of the knight and his trusty steed can be customised from 64 colour combinations available, along with size of the image which can be changed with a simple tap of the screen.

A picture frame installed on the bridge allows the user to capture their knight in all its glory, set against the beautiful backdrop of the city’s Brayford Pool and the magnificent Lincoln Cathedral.

The installation also features a wireless access point, allowing visitors to download the application and share their customised knight with friends and family on social media.

The digital project was inspired by the Lincoln Knights’ Trail, a series of spectacular knight sculptures which have taken centre stage in a programme of events in the city commemorating the 800th anniversary of the Battle of Lincoln and the sealing of the Charter of the Forest.

With the help and support of academics in the University’s School of Computer Science, the application was developed by PhD student Kieran Hicks. It builds on the School’s ongoing research exploring augmented reality interaction design in a public setting.

The project has been led by Sukhy Johal MBE, Director of the Centre for Culture & Creativity at the University of Lincoln. He said: “The Lincoln Knights’ Trail has proved to be one of the biggest attractions in Lincoln in 2017 and as a proud sponsor of the trail we are delighted to be able to add to these celebrations further with our interactive installation.

“With the expertise of those in the School of Computer Science, we have been able to develop an installation that brings the story of these famous knights to life. I hope people will enjoy using the app as much as we have enjoyed creating it and will catch the ‘Lincoln Secret Knight’ while they can!”

Matt Corrigan, Chief Executive of Lincoln Business Improvement Group, added: “Lincoln BIG is thrilled to see the launch of this application which combines the great history of the city with forward-thinking, 21st-century fun! Having such a fantastic university in the heart of the city is a tremendous asset and we’ve been proud to work with them to create this exciting installation for everyone to enjoy.”

For more information on the Lincoln Knights’ Trail visit www.knightstrail.com.

To download the app to your Android device, search ‘Lincoln Secret Knight’ in the Play Store.