Virtual Reality and Virtual Prototyping Laboratory

Room: Q145_132 B

The laboratory aims to support research activities related to the study and development of methodologies and software tools for product and process development, the definition of new interaction paradigms, and the evaluation of physical ergonomics, usability, and customer experience. In addition, the laboratory enables comparative research on Virtual and Augmented Reality technologies, with the goal of studying the user experience resulting from the use of these technologies in manufacturing, cultural heritage, and retail contexts. The laboratory mainly consists of commercial technologies and software tools, as well as solutions developed directly by the research group within previous R&D projects. All tools are available to mechanical, management, and biomedical engineering students for course projects, internships, and thesis work.

Main Facilities
  • Feature-based parametric solid modeling systems (Siemens NX)
  • Surface modeling systems (Rhinoceros)
  • Simulation and rendering systems (Blender)
  • Virtual environment development platforms (Unity)
  • High-fidelity VR system (HTC Vive Pro 2)
  • Standalone VR systems (Meta Quest 2 and Meta Quest 3)
  • Haptic gloves with force-feedback (SenseGlove Nova 1)
  • VR treadmill (KatWalk Mini S)
  • 49” immersive curved display (Samsung ODYSSEY OLED 49”)
  • Workstation for training deep-learning neural networks for the development of person-recognition systems and behavior/emotion tracking
  • Flexible front-projection screen also supporting Active Stereoscopic Imaging (DIAMOND 150, 3 × 2.5 m)
  • Active-stereo 3D projection system (ProjectionDesign F10 AS3D ZOOM and NuVision APG6000 active glasses)
  • Tracking and motion-capture software systems (OptiTrack Tracking Tool, OptiTrack Arena)
  • Video-mapping projection system (OPTOMA ZH510T and OPTOMA T510 Dynamic Projection Mirror Head)
  • Haptic probe (Sensable Freeform)
  • Biofeedback analysis system (Mind Media NEXUS-10 Mk II with EEG, ECG, skin conductance, and temperature sensors)

Research manager:

Prof. Maura Mengoni

Staff:

Prof. Maura Mengoni