Out of this
world learning

Preparing for high risk scenarios is difficult, as theory can only teach
so much and simulating the actual scenario is often too expensive...
and more than likely far too dangerous.
But in virtual reality, there are none of these problems.

The Immersive Learning Facility in UQ’s Advanced Engineering Building can accurately simulate multiple engineering scenarios, including high-risk scenarios such as a slope failure in an open-cut mine or a roof collapse in an underground mine.

The system uses a combination of an interactive curved screen and an HTC Vive head-mounted display, and immersion is enhanced through the use of headphones and hand-held motion controllers.

Image: HTC

Image: HTC

It allows users to navigate through
environments from a first-person perspective.

But highlighting hazards isn’t the only purpose of virtual reality. A UQ researcher found students excelled in assessments after using the VR simulation.

This technology extends far beyond these few scenarios. If it exists in reality, it can be modelled in virtual reality.

Think of the possibilities in complex systems visualisation, virtual tourism, 3D art, 3D movies - which would allow you to look around the scene and change your view point.

These are just a few examples that provide a small glimpse into the future applications of this technology.

For more information, visit the UQ School of Mechanical and Mining Engineering website.