This has a seven-projector system and provides true immersive virtual reality designed for group interaction, training, and design review. The university now has an expanding team of 30 full-time experts in VR modeling, project and technical management, business development, sales, and creative direction. It has created VR models for a range of applications, including construction, manufacturing, tourism and global real estate development. Janice Webster, director of the VR Center, is keen to demonstrate the strengths and flexibility of virtual reality to local businesses. We want to get local companies interested by cutting through the hype and emphasizing the practical benefits.
Visualization plays a key role in the aviation industry.
One of the most innovative projects is NASA's Futureflight Central, one of the world's most advanced virtual airport control towers. This uses SGI graphics technology. The interior can be reconfigured to look like any control tower, and a room underneath can accommodate a team playing the part of pilots and ground crew communicating with the controllers via headsets. With air traffic continually growing, safety is a prime consideration. The facility will enable aviation engineers and airport planners to explore the use of new guidance and tracking systems and test ways to prevent potential air and runway problems.