Marietta, Ga. (June 3, 2010) – Southern Polytechnic State University has purchased state-of-the-art equipment and technology for its Visualization and Simulation Research Center. The center features an IMAX-like projection system that has the capability for enhanced research in 3-D virtual and augmented reality technology, geographic information systems, defense simulation and other countless disciplines. Some of the applications include virtual laboratories, distance learning and training and product development for various industries including the military.

The system is a spatially immersive visualization environment, called IVE (pronounced “ivy”), and features four digital projectors and an 8x10 screen. In a standard movie theatre the screen is flat; IVE is warped at the top and bottom. These features allow for the creation of a virtual environment with 3-D imaging.

Virtual reality technology of this kind has been of great interest to the military. Its ability to place users in safe, controlled virtual environments is useful in a wide variety of applications; from tasks that include development of systems for foot soldiers, mission rehearsal for special operations, training for user-controlled robots, or even treatment of phobias. “This virtual technology is not limited to military research,” explained SPSU professor Dr. Max North. “In the future, an architecture student could design a 3-D building that allows users to walk through its rendering or a biology student to dissect a frog without harming an animal or getting their hands dirty.”

The newly acquired equipment will be used to aid the research of both Dr. Max North, in SPSU’s School of Engineering Technology & Management and Dr. Cyril Okhio, in SPSU’s Division of Engineering, who lead the way in the Atlanta area in the fields of Virtual Reality Technology and Engineering Visualization Applications. The two played an important role in SPSU receiving the first technology of this kind in the state, with partial funding provided by the U.S. Army Research Office’s Development and Engineering Command.
“This sophisticated tool-set is expected to increase individual capacity for education and research at SPSU, creating an interdisciplinary and collaborative environment for academic inquiry for students, faculty, and the local industry” added Dr. Okhio.

For more information on SPSU’s Visualization and Simulation Research Center, visit http://eu.spsu.edu/comments/vsrc.php.