CY3F2: Virtual Reality

Module Provider:

School of Systems Engineering

Number of credits:

10 [5 ECTS credits]

Level:

H (Honours)

Terms in which taught:

Spring

Module Convenor:

Dr RJ Mitchell

Pre-requisites:

Co-requisites:

Modules excluded:

Module version for:

2006/7

Aims:
To describe virtual reality in terms of the scientific issues, application areas and strengths and weaknesses of the technology. To provide hands-on experience of various devices and software.

Assessable learning outcomes:
By the end of the module, the student should be able to demonstrate an understanding of the techniques used in Virtual Reality and 3D modelling skills. The student will be able to compare the applicability of various VR technologies to given applications and be able to apply their understanding to the design of an entire VR system, composing display technology and software.

Additional outcomes:

Outline content:
Computers are increasingly able to render synthetic environments with high quality as realised in modern computer graphic (CG) films. The course will study the human interactions with these synthetic environments thus encompassing applications such as CG animation, scientific visualisation, training, and behavioural studies.
In a virtual reality users can interact within a three dimensional computer generated information space, and interact with complex and life like objects as well as other users. The course discusses concepts such as virtual reality, multi-modal interactions, and synthetic environments. It will introduce a wide range of interface devices and applications and examine a number of classical devices including desk-top, head-mounted displays, tracking systems and virtual reality rooms (cubic environments). The course will develop the mathematical and programming framework for highly interactive environments including modelling and animation of 3D objects, and the programming techniques used to render these in real-time.
An important aspect of the interaction is multi-modal interfaces such as haptic devices. Theoretical and practical aspects of haptic technology are considered including perception, mechanical design, control and software simulations.
Students will be given the chance to experiment with haptic and synthetic environments.

Brief description of teaching and learning methods:
The module comprises 2 lectures per week, assignments and some revision tutorials. The assignment will give the student 3D modelling skills by developing of a virtual character that is animated in an interactive fashion.

Contact hours:

Assessment:
Coursework
The module is assessed by one assignment.
Relative percentage of coursework : 25%
Penalties for late submission
Penalties for late submission of work will be in accordance with University policy.
Examinations
One two hour paper.
Requirements for a pass
A mark of 40% overall
Reassessment arrangements
Re-examination one year later by examination only