Introduction to Virtual Reality and Augmented Reality on the University of Nevada, Reno
The University Libraries on the University of Nevada, Reno has turn out to be a pacesetter in virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) development and innovation. With successful projects like "Walking with Reality" and the "Reno Street Art Project", the Libraries @One Digital Media Technology team goals to extend interest in and use of those technologies in research and university course curriculum. To achieve this, they host the VR|AR Meet-up, an event where faculty and students from various university departments present their research involving VR and/or AR technology.
What to Expect on the VR|AR Meet-up
The annual meet-up takes place on the primary floor of the Mathewson-IGT Knowledge Center and includes a variety of school presentations on research projects that incorporate VR or AR technology. These presentations are in a lightning-style format, allowing for a big selection of topics to be covered in a brief period of time. The event is open to college students, faculty, and staff, in addition to community members inquisitive about multimedia technology, VR, and AR.
Experience VR and AR Hands-On
Following the presentations, attendees can experience VR and AR for themselves through hands-on demonstrations. The @One and @Reality VR|AR Studio offers a variety of interactive demos, including a virtual medical training scenario, a VR museum, an AR social media experience, and more. One of essentially the most impressive demos is a VR simulation of a jet pack in motion in zero gravity, designed by Assistant Professor of Psychology Paul MacNeilage.
Local Companies Participating within the VR|AR Meet-up
Three local corporations are participating within the VR|AR Meet-up, showcasing their unique entrepreneurial applications of VR and AR technologies. Reno-based Healing Healthcare Systems is showcasing their C.A.R.E. VRx technology, designed to offer immersive experiences for hospital patients. Xplorit, a virtual tour company, allows people to go looking for vacation spots, take a look at attractions, or scout locations for meetings or events. High Sierra 3D focuses on high-quality 3D models and is demonstrating augmented reality iterations of sculptures created by university art students and native artists.
About the University Libraries
The University Libraries are committed to mental inquiry and innovation, nurturing the production of recent knowledge, and fostering excellence in learning, teaching, and research. With over 1.2 million visitors each academic yr, the Libraries are a hub of activity and a beneficial resource for the university community.
Conclusion
The VR|AR Meet-up on the University of Nevada, Reno is an exciting event that showcases the most recent developments in virtual reality and augmented reality. With a variety of presentations, hands-on demos, and participation from local corporations, this event is a must-attend for anyone inquisitive about multimedia technology, VR, and AR. By hosting this event, the University Libraries are promoting innovation and excellence in learning, teaching, and research, and providing a novel opportunity for the university community to come back together and explore the chances of VR and AR.
