Cooperative children’s games based on augmented reality
Advancements in technology have changed the way we interact with our environment and the city. Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) have provided new means through which to connect by creating networks, and have enabled the creation of more automated and interconnected infrastructures and services. Over the last decade, “Smart Cities” have developed—intelligent and efficient cities that, through technology, have been able to improve data collection and optimize the management of this information, promoting the interaction of services and improving the relationship and involvement of citizens.
On the other hand, the possibilities offered by smartphones and social networks have transformed the way we experience and interact with public spaces. Geolocation, access to guided and detailed information, or group calling and organization capabilities have deeply changed the traditional vision of the urban environment. In this scenario of constant evolution, with public spaces that are increasingly autonomous and efficient, better connected, and fully participated in by citizens, children’s play areas take on a special prominence. Citizens are becoming more demanding and rigorous; they look for more than just play value for their children, expecting spaces to be unique, educational, and inclusive, as well as pleasant for the adults accompanying them. In this context, Breinco and Urban Enjoy have worked together to make a qualitative leap with a new line of products aligned with the evolution of “Smart Cities.” 
Technology in the square and the park
This introduction of ICT into public spaces presents itself as a new opportunity to dynamicize and diversify them, fostering new educational gathering and play areas, making the youngest participants part of this new reality, and offering them new ways to play together and interact with the outdoor environment of the park or square. It is about allying with technology, not fighting against it, with the objective of getting children out of the house so they return to the park, thereby promoting socialization, physical exercise, learning, and fun.
The games
In order to introduce technology into children’s worlds in a shared way, and as a complement to more traditional models, interactive game boards are proposed. These are connected to a mobile phone application and aim to open up new ways of playing and interacting with the environment, thus diversifying the function of public spaces. Through an application developed with hybrid technology (iOS and Android) that interacts with boards made of a pavement with a colorful and attractive design, a wide variety of games are offered within a relatively small space. The games are simple, posing both physical and cognitive challenges, and seek to foster cooperative play, empathy, solidarity, and physical and intellectual development. The App is highly intuitive, fast, and easy to use, and it also allows for the creation of new games and content. The play area is fully accessible without any type of discrimination, and boys and girls of all ages can play, although the games are recommended from 3 years old. The activity can be supervised by one or more adults who use their smartphones/tablets as a play tool, but the play area can also be used without them. The application is activated by scanning the QR codes present on each of the boards. In other words, it is necessary to be in front of the board to use the application. The first time it is accessed using the QR code reader, the game can be downloaded through the App Store or Google Play Store. 
Augmented reality
The mobile phone can play a major role or none at all in this activity, since the games can range from jumping from square to square without even using the device, to combinations with augmented reality. Boys and girls can interact and take photos with the virtual objects they find, and the winners of each game can be photographed on a virtual podium with trophies that are invisible to the human eye but real from the mobile screen.
Digital printing
New digital technologies applied to printing have made it possible to obtain a product with the best features. The printing system used allows for great flexibility and high resolution. The printed paving maintains its excellent technical performance across its entire surface, even in high-traffic areas, thanks to its high resistance to abrasion, hardness, and durability. Likewise, its easy daily maintenance is a considerably noteworthy aspect for high-activity public spaces. 
First pilot test in Alicante
A pilot test is currently being carried out in Alcoy, Alicante, after the games were tested in various sessions with groups of boys and girls. This first implementation, which took place in front of an educational center, has been very well received by residents, as it has allowed a public space heavily used by the people of Alcoy to be reclaimed and given back to the youngest citizens.
About Breinco and Urban Enjoy
BREINCO is a benchmark in urban landscape solutions: from design, technical advice, and product development, to manufacturing, delivery, and installation; a specialist in creating landscape value by following new trends in architecture and urban planning under sustainability criteria. URBAN ENJOY is a startup born with the idea of reinterpreting the experience of public space through technology. Focused on ages where technology begins to be used as a play element, it aims to break the introspection that technology sometimes represents, combining digital play trends without giving up the traditional element. New ways to play, new ways to learn, and new ways to relate to the environment.
References
https://promateriales.com/fruto-la-colaboracion-breinco-urban-enjoy-nace-breincosmartplay/
