VR applications in the laboratory test environment


The Technische Hochschule Ingolstadt has its own laboratory for virtual reality and simulation that allows for all stages from AR to VR to be experienced. One of the key focuses is collaborative VR, which allows several people to collaborate in a virtual environment. VR is also an important subject as part of the Digital Business course of study.
The Bavarian Academy of Sciences and Humanities’ Leibniz Supercomputing Centre works on VR concepts at the Centre for Virtual Reality and Visualisation using state-of-the-art technology. In cooperation with LMU in Munich, students in the “Virtual Reality” lecture are creating their own VR applications, which will be presented during the annual VR Open Lab Days – just like recently in mid-December. Visitors can get an idea of the elaborately designed laboratory here, which houses two large immersive installations, a powerwall and a 5-sided project installation. Countless research projects have emerged from here so far, from archaeology to architecture as well as life sciences and engineering.
 

VR basic research


The application of AR or VR concepts presumes that the technical basics are fully developed. Among other things, the issue of 3D visualisation is essential, which the For3D research network is dedicated to, for example. The network, which FAU Erlangen-Nürnberg, TU Munich, the University of Bayreuth, Fraunhofer IIS and the German Aerospace Center as well as several industrial partners are involved in, is conducting research on the algorithmic bases of 3D capture in seven subprojects.

It should be particularly pleasing for the researchers that Fraunhofer IIS is also on board. As the Institute for Integrated Circuits provides space for a whole range of different themed worlds with Holodeck 4.0. Up to 100 users can move in a virtual space, which makes the installation interesting for application fields in production and logistics or architecture too. Scientists at IIS are also working on audio and media technologies that are going to convey three-dimensional soundscapes to give the VR experience a sense of coherence all-round.

Regardless of whether it’s basic research into new technologies, developing three-dimensional space or thinking of new possible applications: Bavarian research into augmented and virtual reality is broad based and always searching for forward-thinking solutions.

Check our infographic for more information about virtual reality technologies in Bavaria.