Dr. Brett Stevens, deputy director of postgraduate computing programmes at The University of Portsmouth, explained: “Ever since I first saw a large scale Virtual Reality (VR) system demonstrated five years ago, I knew I wanted one!  Then the technology was expensive and not very robust.  We have taken delivery of our system at the perfect time, as prices have fallen and new equipment means that the system should be capable of withstanding whatever our students can throw at it.  At the same time, I was certain we didn’t want an off-the-shelf system, but something specifically tailored for our needs.  I then came up with a configuration that I thought was theoretically possible and approached Virtalis, Europe’s leading VR systems integrator, to see if they could make it happen.”

What Makes this Virtalis System Special?

The hybrid system installed is unique because it combines both front and rear projection screens in order to provide the maximum screen area in a relatively small space.  It boasts a five metre central screen that is rear projected, so it is possible to walk right up to the screen and not lose the illusion that one is part of a virtual environment.  The Christie projectors used are capable of very high resolution and have a total brightness level of 16,000 lumens.  In addition, two three-metre wings that extend off the front screen fill the user’s peripheral vision.  The result is a full, 3D wrap around effect.

Virtual Touch
Dr. Stevens continued: “Apart from the big 3D display system, Virtalis also supplied us with the supporting haptic systems, including two Phantom haptic manipulators.  These amazing force feedback devices allow students to sculpt virtual clay and create entirely new digital objects, quickly and easily, without the need for physical prototypes.  I would like to see these systems being rolled out across our computer laboratories, as they are both accessible and useful.”

Tracking
Not only is there a very complex set-up in a confined space, but the system also features a Vicon optical tracking system capable of full body motion capture and the first Ascension 3D Navigator installed in Europe for advanced wireless interaction with VR datasets.  The system has incredible capability for its size, with the students being able to use the multiple sensors to interact with virtual objects using the CyberGrasp from Immersion.

The University of Portsmouth Web Site:

http://www.creativehampshire.co.uk/ct/virtual-reality/MCTPRO_VR_Centre_CA_Final.swf