Queries regarding Flash Builder and Augmented Reality.

Question

I am Sarat from India. I'm a software engineer with working knowledge of Java, so Flash AS and OOP are understandable for me. I am working on an augmented reality project. I am quite new to Flash, Adobe Community and I've got some queries regarding Augmented Reality and Flash Builder:
1. Flash Builder 4.6 comes with a default Flex 4.6 SDK. However, Flex 4.6 SDK wasn't allowing me to compile and run some example files. So I've downloaded Flex 4.0A version from Adobe.com. Now the examples are running fine, but would there be any problem if i try deploying such projects in a website or as a desktop app? Once the code is compiled into a swf file, the flex framework used doesn't make much difference, does it?
2. Would the AR project run effectively on a website, given various internet/processor speeds worldwide? Would the effectiveness of the AR project, deployed on a website, depend on the number of triangles in the 3D models i.e. dae files? Because as per my understanding heavy models implies more time to download the flash app into the local browser from the internet and more time to render them by the papervision 3D engine right?
3. Can we develop a stand alone desktop AR app using Flash Builder? Using Adobe AIR we can, i guess. Please refer some tutorial, if possible.
4. I've seen that we can implement multiple-marker-tracking AR using vectors/arrays in AS. Would there be any performance issues depending on the size of the vectors/arrays used.
5. Can someone please mention some tips to improve performance of an AR app (desktop app and web app)?
6. What would be, approximately, the cost of FLARManager, FLARToolkit commercial versions, if you have any idea? I've gone through their website but they did not mention the costs.
7. Would applying bitmap material to the dae models pull down the web app/mobile app/desktop app performance, given some 4 to 5 dae models in the scene?
8. Is it advisable to use multiple markers with multiple dae models or single marker with Flash-based GUI option to load different models onto the same marker?
It would be very helpful for me if someone could answer my above queries.
Sarat.

Answer 1

#1, If it compiles then you have no issue. There's no reason at this point not to use 4.6. You should bundle a captive runtime to assure the users computer won't need to have AIR installed at all.
#2, Papervision is old. Use the Stage3D and/or a wrapper framework. As far as the generic "If I download lots of data will it take the user more time to load it", well, of course. Just don't make the loading experience painful. Entertain them while they way or find ways of displaying data sooner than later. If it's desirable on the web has more to do with the context of the app and the device displaying it. In other words, a phone user would find it easy but obviously not a desktop user.
#3, Definitely referring you to Google on that one.
#4, Size always matters, it's common sense. The more you process the harder it is. While I haven't done AR I've used the Microsoft Kinect SDK and ANE and tracking was extremely fast but limited. From what I've seen and your basic built in location and direction hardware on any mobile device you shouldn't have much trouble. Depends on what you're doing.
#5, This discussion would be way too large for a forum. You'd need to consult a firm experienced in AR development.
#6, "Applications using the commercial license do not have to provide source code, but must pay a licensing fee. Contact ARToolworks at [email protected] for more information." They will base your price on your product, there is no single price.
#7, The models could be huge and elaborate or tiny and simple which changes the answer. Consult the answer in #4. Ultimately most people are getting on fast networks with mobile and excessively fast on desktop/wifi. Size matters a lot less than 3 years ago.
#8, Depends on what you're doing. You have to explain it.