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Abstract
This dissertation explores the development of a convergent extended reality (XR) space through several projects spanning multiple domains, including engineering education, scientific visualization, social virtual reality (VR), health, and productivity. The work represents a shift from developing single-use research projects to creating a broader framework of applications with real-world value beyond basic scientific research goals. Each user study detailed in this dissertation builds upon previous work, contributing to the core technologies of a single monolithic social VR space known as conVRged.
The first demonstration of this framework involved developing a novel immersive collaborative land surveying experience. A user study with 85 participants evaluated the VR experience's effectiveness in training the use of surveying equipment, which is otherwise expensive and subject to weather conditions. The study found promising results for using this system in engineering curricula, with high levels of student engagement and enthusiasm. This project also developed foundational technologies for the social VR space used in subsequent projects.
Next, a scientific visualization tool was developed to allow users to visualize and interact with large-scale point clouds in VR. The evaluation of this tool compared novel selection techniques in both VR and desktop environments, demonstrating relative advantages for each. The advanced rendering techniques developed for this project were integrated into conVRged, strengthening the productivity use case for the space.
A third project analyzed a core component of each previous project, as well as many larger VR experiences — locomotion. A user study quantified the advantages of techniques used in our previous work and compared them to novel techniques built for a hand-tracked system. This study also demonstrated the effectiveness of conducting a study in a multi-purpose VR world rather than a single-use system.
Finally, a discussion of the individual tools and development practices highlights the lessons learned and design decisions that led to the creation of a cohesive and valuable collection of VR technologies. This work underscores the convergence of a wide array of technologies that have enabled and continue to enable the use of conVRged for diverse research goals in the XR space.
The first demonstration of this framework involved developing a novel immersive collaborative land surveying experience. A user study with 85 participants evaluated the VR experience's effectiveness in training the use of surveying equipment, which is otherwise expensive and subject to weather conditions. The study found promising results for using this system in engineering curricula, with high levels of student engagement and enthusiasm. This project also developed foundational technologies for the social VR space used in subsequent projects.
Next, a scientific visualization tool was developed to allow users to visualize and interact with large-scale point clouds in VR. The evaluation of this tool compared novel selection techniques in both VR and desktop environments, demonstrating relative advantages for each. The advanced rendering techniques developed for this project were integrated into conVRged, strengthening the productivity use case for the space.
A third project analyzed a core component of each previous project, as well as many larger VR experiences — locomotion. A user study quantified the advantages of techniques used in our previous work and compared them to novel techniques built for a hand-tracked system. This study also demonstrated the effectiveness of conducting a study in a multi-purpose VR world rather than a single-use system.
Finally, a discussion of the individual tools and development practices highlights the lessons learned and design decisions that led to the creation of a cohesive and valuable collection of VR technologies. This work underscores the convergence of a wide array of technologies that have enabled and continue to enable the use of conVRged for diverse research goals in the XR space.