Applications of Virtual Reality

APPLICATIONS OF VIRTUAL REALITY

SANDEEP BASWA G VENKATESH D.VISHWANADH SUDHEER [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] 9951 681 281 9010 520 526 9951 77 00 81 III / IV CSE III / IV CSE III / IV CSE Raghu Engg College Raghu Engg College Raghu Engg College

1. ABSTRACT: Applications of Virtual Reality

Virtual reality (VR) is a technology 2. INTRODUCTION: which allows a user to interact with a computer- 2.1 Virtual reality: simulated environment, be it a real or imagined one. Most current virtual reality environments are Virtual reality is a high-end user–computer primarily visual experiences, displayed either on interface that involves real time simulation and a computer screen or through special interactions through multiple sensorial channels. or stereoscopic displays, but some simulations These sensorial modalities are visual, auditory, include additional sensory information, such as tactile, smell, and taste. sound through speakers or headphones. It is a very powerful and compelling computer application by which humans interact In this paper we have presented the with computer-generated environments in a way concept of virtual reality in different simulation that mimics real life and engages various senses. techniques that are applied in the military. The Although its most widely known application is in techniques such as flight simulators, Ground the entertainment industry, the real promise of Vehicle Simulators and Water Vehicle Simulators virtual reality lies in such fields as medicine, are dealt under this category. These simulation engineering, oil exploration, and the military, to techniques resulted in realistic, immersive virtual name just a few. scenarios that help soldiers acclimate to various In terms of functionality, it is a simulation combat environments and situations. in which computer graphics is used to create a We have also presented how the concept realistic-looking world. Moreover, the synthetic of virtual reality is applied in certain fields of world is not static, but responds to the user’s input medicine like the treatment of phobias and in (gesture, verbal command, etc.). This defines a surgeries. key feature of virtual reality, which is real-time interactivity. Here real time means that the Besides the above mentioned applications, computer is able to detect a user’s input and we have introduced a “new concept” of Virtual modify the virtual world instantaneously. People Execution wherein the step by step execution of a like to see things change on the screen in response program is simulated. This is explained using C- to their commands and become captivated by the Language constructs. The disadvantages and the simulation. ways to overcome them are also explained. The Interactivity and its captivating power paper ends with the discussion on the range to contributes to the feeling of immersion, of being which this concept can be applied, and the extent part of the action on the screen, that the user to which it can be developed. Applications of Virtual Reality experiences. But virtual reality pushes this even further by using all human sensorial channels. 3. VR - Military Applications: Indeed, users not only can see and manipulate graphic objects on the screen, they also touch and From the earliest moments in the history feel them. of virtual reality (VR), the United States military forces have been a driving factor in 2.2 The three I’s of Virtual Reality: developing and applying new VR technologies. It is clear from the foregoing description Along with the entertainment industry, the that virtual reality is both interactive and military is responsible for the most dramatic immersive. These features are the two I’s that evolutionary leaps in the VR field. most people are familiar with. There is, however, a third feature of virtual reality that fewer people are aware of. VR is not just a medium or a high- end user interface; it also has applications that involve solutions to real problems in engineering, medicine, the military, etc. These applications are designed by virtual reality developers. The extent to which an application is able to solve a particular problem, that is, the extent to which a Virtual environments work well in military simulation performs well, depends therefore very applications. When well designed, they provide much on the human imagination, the third “I” of the user with an accurate simulation of real events VR. Virtual reality is therefore an integrated trio in a safe, controlled environment. Specialized of immersion–interaction–imagination, as shown military training can be very expensive, in figure. particularly for vehicle pilots. Some training procedures have an element of danger when using real situations. While the initial development of VR gear and software is expensive, in the long run it's much more cost effective than putting soldiers into real vehicles or physically simulated situations. VR technology also has other potential applications that can make military activities safer. Applications of Virtual Reality Out of all the earliest VR technology applications, military vehicle simulations have probably been the most successful. Simulators use sophisticated computer models to replicate a vehicle's capabilities and limitations within a stationary -- and safe -- computer station. That's why when engineers first began to experiment with head-mounted displays (HMD), the military took notice. Both the Navy and the Air Force funded some of the earliest work in developing effective HMDs. The first HMDs weren't linked to a virtual environment -- they were linked to a camera. Engineers mounted a camera to a servo-controlled base (a base platform connected to one or more motors that Possibly the most well-known of all the adjust the position of the base by rotating or tilting simulators in the military are the flight simulators. the platform). Air Force, Army and Navy all use flight A user wearing the HMD could control simulators to train pilots. Training missions may where the camera pointed by turning his head in include how to fly in battle, how to recover in an different directions. In an early application of this emergency, or how to coordinate air support with technique, Bell Helicopter Company mounted an ground operations. infrared camera on the bottom of a helicopter. The All three branches use hardware developed chopper pilot could get an unprecedented look at by the military as well as from third-party the terrain beneath his vehicle when flying at vendors. Because of this, many of the flight night, making it safer to land in difficult simulators they use are different from one conditions. another. Often, this can cause difficulty when linking systems together -- simulated enemies Today, the military uses VR techniques may not appear in the same point of space for not only for training and safety enhancement, but multiple pilots, for example. Currently, there's a also to analyze military maneuvers and battlefield big push to create better networks among positions. simulators to facilitate coordinated training 3.1 Flight Simulators missions. Applications of Virtual Reality Although flight simulators may vary from one model to another, most of them have a similar basic setup. The simulator sits on top of either an electronic motion base or a hydraulic lift system that reacts to user input and events within the simulation. As the pilot steers the aircraft, the module he sits in twists and tilts, giving the user haptic feedback. The word "haptic" refers to the sense of touch. The FCS simulators include three

Some flight simulators include a computer monitors and a pair completely enclosed module, while others just of joystick controllers attached to a console. The have a series of monitors arranged to cover the modules can simulate several different ground pilot's field of view. Ideally, the flight simulator vehicles, including non-line-of-sight mortar will be designed so that when the pilot looks vehicles, reconnaissance vehicles or an infantry around, he sees the same controls and layout as he carrier vehicle. would in a real aircraft. The Army uses several specific devices to train soldiers to drive specialized vehicles like 3.2 On the Ground and In the Water tanks or the heavily-armored Stryker vehicle. Ground Vehicle Simulators: They not only accurately recreate the handling Although not as high profile as flight and feel of the vehicle they represent, but also can simulators, VR simulators for ground vehicles are replicate just about any environment you can an important part of the military's strategy. In fact, imagine. Trainees can learn how the real vehicle simulators are a key part of the Future Combat handles in treacherous weather conditions or System (FCS) -- the foundation of the armed difficult terrain. Networked simulators allow users forces' future. The FCS consists of a networked to participate in complex war games. battle command system and advanced vehicles and weapons platforms. Computer scientists designed FCS simulators to link together in a network, facilitating complex training missions involving multiple participants acting in various roles. Applications of Virtual Reality (NSST) accurately replicates the bridge of a large Navy ship. Navy bridge teams can train together through various scenarios, building teamwork and ship-handling skills in the process.

3.3 Virtual Boot Camp

Apart from familiarizing soldiers with some of the most complex vehicles in the military

Today, many training facilities are using fleet, trainers have discovered that virtual simulators to familiarize soldiers with the urban environments can come in handy in other combat tactics. Simulators give the military a applications as well. Military officials and video chance to teach soldiers how to navigate and game studios have partnered to create realistic, operate effectively within urban landscapes immersive virtual scenarios that help soldiers -- without having to construct a physical artificial acclimate to various combat environments and environment. situations. Nonmilitary gamers can even get a sample of some of these scenarios by playing Water Vehicle Simulators popular commercial software games. Navy submarine simulators are different from other military-vehicle simulators. There are no windows to the outside world on board a sub, so there isn't a need for lifelike graphics. Submarine simulators instead must provide realistic instrument readings as the crew navigates through the simulation. Some submarine simulators are stationary, which can detract from a user's sense of immersion. Others, however, are mounted on a set of pneumatic arms that can tilt the module, allowing it to physically simulate a diving or surfacing maneuver.

Another impressive naval application of Pandemic Studios created a complex virtual environments is the virtual bridge. The training simulation as part of the Future Combat navigation, seamanship and ship-handling trainer Systems (FCS) initiative. Soldiers can practice Applications of Virtual Reality small team tactics in a virtual urban environment.  A special load-bearing vest that holds They use an Xbox console to run the game and the batteries for the unit and a wireless take on the role of a team leader attempting to computer unit achieve specific objectives in various scenarios.  A body motion tracker Pandemic Studios later offered a modified version  A wireless weapon controller that of the software as a commercial game, called matches the size, weight and shape of real "Full Spectrum Warrior." military weapons. Today, the military uses these games to Quantum3D, Inc. created the systems help connect with recruits and give them a safe specifically for the military. They run on a environment to practice techniques and skills. specialized software package, but can also use a Some programs are web-based, allowing recruits program called the Battle Master IOS. The to interact with experienced soldiers and learn programs allow soldiers to train with simulated about real-life techniques that can help keep them weapons like the M4, M165 or M249 while safe. navigating a virtual combat environment.

Some VR training applications go a step 3.4 Other Applications further than console games. While not common, Another application of virtual some bases include larger virtual reality setups for environments in the military is battlefield more intensive training. Trainers use everything visualization. Battlefield visualization is vital from CAVE systems to head-mounted displays when determining combat strategies in real time. and treadmills to reinforce concepts and techniques with trainees.

One such pilot program is the Virtual Squad Training System (VSTS), located at Schofield Barracks in Hawaii. Recently, the facility commissioned a new training system. It's a wearable and wireless system that allows soldiers to move unencumbered through a virtual environment with the help of the following virtual-reality gear: It's also a key element in the training regimen of commanding officers. It helps commanders assess  A head-mounted display with a motion their options before making decisions that could tracker put soldiers in harm's way. Applications of Virtual Reality Tools like the Google Earth and the Sketch For a novice of Computer field, Up make creating 3-D maps easy and understanding the processes that are under gone inexpensive. Today, military officials can explore when a program executes is a tough job. During a 3-D model of an area, viewing it from any angle the explanation of the first program in our first C - while formulating strategies and looking for Programming class, 40 to 45 students, out of a potential logistical problems. class of 60, did not understand what actually The military has explored using a VR happens during execution and why we are writing workbench as a display technology for battlefield the program. Out of the 15 to 20 members who visualization. The viewer wears a pair of special have understood the program, many have already goggles that create the illusion of depth, so that seen how a program would like. the images displayed on the workbench appear to There is every need for the students to be 3-D. Multiple users can view the same display know how a program internally executed and why at once, assuming they're all wearing the special are the programs written for. goggles. 5.2 Solution: Today, a high-powered laptop can meet much of the military's needs for visualization. One This problem can of course be solved by don't get the same level of immersion when an effective teacher and student pair. besides, we working with a personal computer as you would think that the aforementioned problem can be with a dedicated VR system, but the computers attacked with the help of Virtual Reality are much less expensive and easy to network. technology.

The military also uses virtual Devices that are to be used, environments to prepare soldiers for emergencies.  Head mounted display. For example, the Navy Research Laboratory has  Software that converts the program’s the Virtual Environment Training Technology execution into graphical pictures. program. In this program, the Navy trains sailors 5.3 Overview: how to deal with shipboard fires using a virtual environment. The user who is to be shown the process of the execution should be provided with a head 4. VIRTUAL EXECUTION mounted display. The working procedure of this 5.1 Problem Statement: VR application is stated using the execution of the Applications of Virtual Reality C Program in TurboC IDE. Steps that are to be instruction a=a+6; Now the simulation shows the followed are as follows following steps

 The user should make appropriate settings  Value of ‘a’ is taken by the processor. such that the software is run when the  6 is added. program is executed.  The result is stored in a’s location.  The user’s screen is split into 2, one half In this way this concept of simulation consisting of the actual program and the deals with the creation of blocks of code, data other half which illustrates what exactly structures etc. the program does for the particular 5.4 Disadvantages: statement. First the simulator shows how the program The main disadvantage of the above is brought from the secondary to the main technique is that the simulation of the program memory, followed by the location where its may display the information that cannot be memory is allocated. The display to the right of understood by the user. the program consists of the following This can be eliminated by the initial  Processor with registers. settings panel that is set before every user who  The instructions in memory. takes the simulation.  The data that is stored in the memory. The other disadvantage of this application  Interrupts (if any) is that the cost of the machinery. This can also be The process that is done inside the surpassed by the depth of the topic that this brings computer is explained with every instruction. The to the content. user, at any stage, can stop, pause, resume and slow the simulation. Only the interdependent processes are displayed as per the user’s setting that has been selected previously. 5.5 Applications: For example, when a statement like int a=10; is encountered, the left half of the screen This technology of simulating the process shows the statement and the right half shows the using Virtual Reality concept can be applied to memory allocation of the integer ‘a’ with a the following fields for further progress. garbage value which is then replaced by the value 10 in the simulation. It is then followed by the Applications of Virtual Reality During the manufacture of any software with computer-generated environments in a way product in any software organization, that mimics real life and engages various senses. considerable amount of time is spent on “Testing” It provides simulation techniques that help in phase. training armed forces. These techniques are less expensive and effective when compared to  The usage of the above technology exposure theory. Also virtual reality finds its use makes the process of both “Testing and even in the fields of medicine such as curing Debugging” simpler as with the simulation patients' phobias, in surgery etc. the tester can identify the bugs in the programs, similarly it also lessens the Till now we have seen virtual reality and burden of the Debugger to debug the bugs its innovative ideas in various fields. Now we in the code. would like to propose our new idea which we  On the other hand, the organizations termed it as Virtual Execution that enhances the can also diminish their investments on understandability of a student. On further different technicians as one can simply test enhancement of this Virtual Execution, the testing and correct the code instead of employing and debugging capacities over any software two different persons. product or program can be upgraded to make that This technology can further be enhanced product run with fewer errors. by the inclusion of the study of operating systems’ related mechanisms which are theoretically hard 6. REFERENCES: to imagine. The operations like the scheduler related tasks, memory management, time sharing and many more functions that an operating system  http://www.howstuffworks.com/ could provide can easily be simulated using this  http://www.informatik.umu.se/~jwworth/3 technology. This makes the manufacturers to ApplicationAreas assure quality.  en.wikipedia.org

 www.cybertherapy.info 5. CONCLUSION:  http://www.cybertherapy.info/MIM_0161 Now, we can conclude that, Virtual _Riva.pdf Reality is a very powerful and compelling computer application by which humans interact