In response to Jan's virtual reality question, Loughborough University in
the UK has a 'virtual reality' professor. His contact details are as
follows;
R.S.Kalawsky
Professor of Human-Computer Integration
His research brief is described as follows:
Exploitation of multi-sensory virtual environments (visually coupled
systems, virtual reality - semi
and fully immersive systems) in scientific and engineering applications.
Improving human
performance as a key factor in the above. Virtual prototyping/design -
including the use of virtual
manikins. High resolution imagery - architectures, algorithms and software;
Teleoperated systems;
Vision systems; Scientific visualisation; Medical imaging systems -
computer based surgical
tools/training aids. Human factors as an underpinning science covering -
perception and advanced
MMI.
I know that my supervisor, Bob Caves had discussions with him about
multi-participant VR simulations with the idea of examining evacuations
through disrupted aircraft hulls. From what I remember, once you get more
than a very small number of people then it gets pretty difficult. Having
said that, this was a year ago and VR is moving very fast. I am sure people
have seen the Sega 'Daytona Racing' game in arcades which ties four or five
cars together in a race - I know the resolution is pretty low level, but I
would even dare to suggest that you tred to contact a company like Sega. I
am sure they are spending squillions on R & D in this area so its not as
silly suggestion as it may first seem.
Hope this helps.
Graham
Graham R. Braithwaite
Research Associate
Department of Aviation
University of New South Wales
Sydney 2052
Australia
Tel. + 61 (0) 2 9385 2806 (work)
Tel. + 61 (0) 2 9314 5061 (home)
Fax. + 61 (0) 2 9385 1072 (work)