Prof. David Fleming, dean at the School, explained: “This passive stereo projection system is highly complex, but its interface is very simple. This facet was very important to us when we were deciding what we wanted last year. Our system has a wireless control panel and it links together the different hardware seamlessly, removing the technological barrier we might otherwise encounter. We intend to have a long-term relationship with Virtalis. As recognised experts, we will look to them to keep both our knowledge and our facility up to scratch.”

Northumbria University intends to integrate a VR element into all its courses and has begun with its BSc Architectural Technology course. Although the system was only made available to the students towards the end of term, they have already produced some impressive 3D models, which show off its capabilities.

Margaret Horne, senior lecturer at the School of the Built Environment, said: “Immediate use was made of the facility following the completion of an interactive model of the university campus. The ability to interact with, and walk around, a model of the campus, exploring design options prior to construction, is already demonstrating the huge potential of the technology. We wanted our system to be practical and flexible and so it has proved. A plethora of application ideas are already being investigated, from the simulation of a construction site from a Health and Safety perspective to a package for design exploration and space analysis. Our visualisation centre has been a considerable draw for a steady stream of visitors.”

Virtalis installed its StereoWorks DLP Passive Stereo Projection System consisting of a rigid rear projection screen with images projected by Christie Digital DS+25 high resolution projectors. An AMX wireless touch panel control system with a customised interface manages all the audio, visual and lighting systems in the room. The system supports both real-time interaction with virtual worlds and the playback of high resolution stereo movies using Virtalis’ StereoServer software.

STOP PRESS:

Virtalis will be holding one of its Technology Road Shows at The University of Northumbria on Friday, 25th November. The theme will be “Interactive 3D Everywhere” and a team from Virtalis will be showing off some of their latest techniques and equipment. On show will be: the Virtalis StereoWorks Projection System in the School for the Built Environment, the SensAble Phantom hi-force haptic device, the SensAble Omni haptic device with "virtual clay" software, Autostereo (glasses free) monitors from Stereographics and Sharp, the Polhemus FastSCAN hand held laser scanner and an Invision 3D printer.