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World First at University of Portsmouth Print E-mail
Written by Sarah Cockburn-Price   
Thursday, 12 May 2005
University of Portsmouth viewing facility VIEWING virtual objects in 3D is now well established all over the world. The methods used have remained broadly the same during the fifteen years that visualisation technology has been developing. However, the University of Portsmouth now has a unique facility that combines the qualities of a small, personal wrap around screen with a big display system capable of allowing two-dozen people to simultaneously see digital objects in 3D. Students in the University of Portsmouth unique facility that combines the qualities of a small, personal wrap around screen with a big display system capable of allowing two-dozen people to simultaneously see digital objects in 3D.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.”

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.

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.”

Students in the University of Portsmouth unique facility that combines the qualities of a small, personal wrap around screen with a big display system capable of allowing two-dozen people to simultaneously see digital objects in 3D.Andrew Connell, technical director at Virtalis, commented: “Initially, we weren’t sure that what the University of Portsmouth wanted could even be done. 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. Our 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. As space was such an issue, we even managed to utilise the space behind the screens for three development systems.”

Dr. Steve Hand, head of the Department of Creative Technologies said: “Our students follow a wide range of courses, but all feature an arts orientation with an understanding of how technology can support creativity. We provide the latest tools for them to explore in the expectation that they will take this knowledge out into industry after graduation.”

The wealth of VR technology at The University of Portsmouth has created something of a stir in the region and the Centre looks set to become a technological dissemination hub. Companies large and small have been flocking for demonstrations, with at least one group a day visiting to experience the technology’s capabilities. As a result, numerous collaborative programmes are currently being proposed. The University’s own research projects include immersive CPR training; a virtual lifeguard simulation and a study into how different people react psychologically to being in a virtual world.

The University of Portsmouth Web Site www.port.ac.uk
 
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