Using a Microsoft Kinect 3D camera, a data projector and simulation and visualization software (for lava and water flow), researchers have developed a futuristic sandbox that lets you build erupting volcanoes and flowing rivers in an augmented reality environment.

Researchers in the Czech Republic developed a version they call SandyStation, while teachers and students at UC Davis built a similar version they call the Augmented Reality Sandbox. The driving software is based on the Vrui VR development toolkit and the Kinect 3D video processing framework, and is available for download under the GNU General Public License.

Be sure to check out the video, pictures and gifs below and visit SandyStation and UC Davis for more information on this augmented awesomeness.

[via PhoneDojo]