A virtual reality Underground ride has been used by Institute of Psychiatry at King's researchers to reveal the extent that paranoia occurs in the general public. The research, led by psychologist Dr Daniel Freeman, and funded by the Wellcome Trust, demonstrates that suspicious or paranoid thoughts are much more common in the general population than was previously thought and that they are almost as common as anxiety and depression.

Until now, researchers have been unable to study paranoia (exaggerated fears about threats from others) in laboratory settings, instead relying on questionnaires, which can be inaccurate. A collaboration led by Dr Daniel Freeman, a Wellcome Trust researcher, has developed a computer simulation to study paranoid thoughts.

"Paranoid thoughts are often triggered by ambiguous events such as people looking in one’s direction or hearing laughter in a room but it is very difficult to recreate such social interactions," says Dr Freeman. "Virtual reality allows us to do just that, to look at how different people interpret exactly the same social situation. It is a uniquely powerful method to detect those liable to misinterpret other people."

Wearing virtual reality headsets, 200 volunteers broadly representative of the general population walked around a virtual London underground carriage in a four-minute journey between station stops. The carriage contained neutral computer people (avatars) that breathed, looked around, and sometimes met the gaze of the participants. One avatar read a newspaper, another would occasionally smile if looked at. A soundtrack of a train carriage was played.

[...]

Put Reality into Your Design Software using Laser Models™ to Decrease Remodeling Time by 85%, Design Time by 60% and Clashes by 85%

2008 Offshore Technology Conference
PITTSBURGH--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Quantapoint (http://www.quantapoint.com) – provider of laser scanning technology and services that helps companies achieve Zero-Defect Projects™ – today announced the release of QuantaCAD™ 8.0. QuantaCAD puts reality into your design software by enabling facilities digitized using laser scanning to be accessed as award-winning high-definition Laser Models™ and photo-realistic Laser Images™. Quantapoint is celebrating this release at the ArCH Center in Houston on Friday, May 2, starting at 5:30 PM. To register, visit http://www.quantapoint.com/80launch. Additionally, visit Quantapoint in Pavilion Booth 13420 at the Offshore Technology Conference 2008 (May 5-8, 2008 at the Reliant Center).

The latest version incorporates a number of new capabilities based on user feedback to better support the design and engineering lifecycle. The new capabilities in QuantaCAD include:

Significantly improved memory management so that more Laser Models may be loaded.
Extremely fast clashing of Laser Models against CAD models, including clashing within SmartPlant Review.
Demolition groups may be colored to visually identify demolition work packages for construction teams.
An elbow demolition selection shape is now available.
Certified tie/tag points may be imported directly into QuantaCAD as starting points for design.
Point, distance and pipe measurements may now be made within Laser Images.
CAD models may be automatically back-projected in 3D into Laser Images in real-time.
Certified tie points and user added tag points may be automatically back-projected in 3D into Laser Images in real-time.
Users may “walk” through the Digitized Facility from Laser Image to Laser Image.
Graphical views may be automatically exported and saved as JPG or TIFF images.
Laser Models may be used as “snap points” for standard AutoCAD commands.
Bentley MicroStation XM is now supported, in addition to Autodesk AutoCAD, Bentley AutoPlant, AVEVA PDMS, Intergraph PDS and Intergraph SmartPlant Review.
By using QuantaCAD to put reality into design software, clients have typically been able to reduce field trips by 90% (by doing virtual site visits in the design software), reduce remodeling time by 85% (by using the Digitized Facility instead of remodeling in CAD or as a basis to remodel), decrease design time by 60% (by accessing more complete information in the design software) and cut rework from design clashes by 85% (by correcting clashes between the Digitized Facility and the new design).

[...]

The Cockpit Procedure Trainer uses hands-on exercises to train pilots in how to use complex flight electronics.

Furstenfeldbruck, 31 march 2008

ESG Elektroniksystem- und Logistik-GmbH has developed a "Cockpit Procedure Trainer" (CPT) for German naval pilots. This simulator exactly recreates the cockpit of the Sea Lynx MK 88A helicopter which is used on the frigates of the Bundeswehr (German Federal Armed Forces). Pilots of the Bundeswehr can use this to train for future missions and to practise with the airborne system whilst still on the ground.

The CPT was developed because the current Sea Lynx helicopters are being modernised in the next few years. They are currently being fitted with new flight electronics, including new display and operating elements. Therefore, the training content of the new simulator is targeted to learning to use the new components. ESG will reproduce the cockpit with all operating elements for this purpose. Instead of using the original operating elements, the CPT will be controlled via touch screen.

In addition to this cockpit variant, which gives pilots a realistic image of a real helicopter, ESG has also developed a simplified laptop variant of the CPT. This way, procedures and scenarios can be practised more easily in various locations.

The new CPT will complement the German navy's present training simulator, which is located in the Netherlands. It will be installed directly in the Navy Air Wing (MFG) 3 in Nordholz. The simulator can be controlled and maintained via the specially secured Bundeswehr network, a type of military internet, from ESG headquarters in Fürstenfeldbruck.

For the CPT order, ESG can fall back on more than twenty years experience in the development of helicopter and aeroplane simulators. ESG is currently operating simulators for CH 53 and TIGER helicopters as well as for TORNADO, EUROFIGHTER and A400M aeroplanes in its technology centre in Fürstenfeldbruck.

For further information please contact:

Jörg Riedle Tel:
Fax: +49-(89) 9216-2850
+49-(89) 9216-2236

ESG Elektroniksystem- und Logistik-GmbH
Livry-Gargan-Straße 6, D - 82256 Fürstenfeldbruck

Philippe Fuchs, president of the french association for VR, is making an incredible trip in real life: he is currently running from Paris to Beijing. A 6 month journey, 10'000km and two marathons per day ! His goal is to reach Beijing in time for the Olympics Games.

You can support him by creating your own realistic avatar on the V+R challenge website.

Each virtual kilometer your avatar runs adds up to the real kilometers ran by Philippe and gives 1€ to Sports without Borders, a non-profit organization that helps thousands of children around the world gain access to educational and community development sports programs.

You can also check in realtime Philippe's position and biometric information.

San Jose Convention Center January 30, 2007
SPIE Stereoscopic Displays and Applications Conference 

Today, stereoscopic motion picture production and technology leader 21st Century 3D announced two new additions to their lineup of three dimensional digital camera systems. The 3DVX3.5 adds new features, refines ergonomics and redefines the state of the art as the world’s smallest and lightest high definition 3D camera–recorder.

The 3DVX–H is a modular hyperstereoscopic camera system that allows for stunning photography of distant subjects while maintaining a strong stereoscopic 3D effect. With ordinary camera separation, discernable stereoscopy diminishes as the camera’s distance from the subject increases. The 3DVX–H compensates for this by allowing users to increase the interoccular distance to as much as three feet or more.

The 3DVX range of cameras puts uncompressed 10 bit 4:4:4 RGB stereoscopic motion picture production into the hands of cinematographers and directors in a way no other camera systems can. The 3DVX3.5 carries over the key capabilities of last year’s breakthrough 3DVX3 and adds incredible new features to an overall enhanced package that is even lighter than its predecessor.  The 3DVX3.5 weighs in at a trim twenty-two pounds with view finder, drives, mini DV tape and 160Ah Li Ion battery. In addition to uncompressed direct to disk recording, the 3DVX3.5 can now record two channels of 16 bit 48khz uncompressed audio and monoscopic NTSC DV video via the built in miniDV VTR. Two balanced XLR connectors allow standard audio or timecode input. The 3DVX3.5 is suitable for a wide range of production applications including motion picture, ride films, themed attractions, music video, documentary, promotional, corporate or live events. The all-new NTSC recording capability allows for immediate on set playback without the need to process RAW camera data. A completely redesigned focus system improves tactile response and offers compatibility with professional follow focus systems, long whips and other accessories. White balance, gain and high-speed shutter controls have now been linked and are operated by individual independent controls for improved accuracy and ease of use.

[...]

ScienceDaily (Apr. 21, 2008) — From cars and mobile phones to computers and furniture, most of today's products are created virtually on a computer before they are actually produced. In the context of the Functional DMU (Digital Mock-Up) project, researchers from four Fraunhofer Institutes are adding new functionalities to digital product development.

An electric car window slides smoothly upward at the press of a button. While power windows are certainly convenient, they can also pose a safety risk. For instance, if a child puts their hand out the window to wave to a friend, the window must stop moving immediately or there could be serious consequences: Tiny fingers can easily get jammed, or the window's mechanism may be damaged. For the first time, the Functional DMU project has enabled Fraunhofer researchers to create a virtual product that can simulate the complex interaction between electrical and mechanical components – such as those used for power windows and convertible rooftop systems.

While computer-supported test models have become part of everyday production activities, not all process chain components can be simulated. "The Digital Mock-Up (DMU) is a virtual model that represents a product's structure and geometry. DMU is today’s standard in virtual product development," says Dr. André Stork of the Fraunhofer Institute for Computer Graphics (IGD) in Darmstadt. Until now, DMU and the associated software tools have only taken product geometry into account. "However, a growing number of the mechatronic components being used today are still not fully represented in virtual test models, although this is precisely what manufacturers urgently need. Discussions with industry partners have shown that these functionalities are what companies want most," Stork points out in explaining the project's background.

"With the help of various software packages, Functional DMU can simulate a mechatronic product's software-related components as well as its electronic and mechanical components. We import the individual components into a complete model. Once this has been done, we can quickly determine whether the components work well together, or whether there are safety issues such as windows that are too thick and heavy, or an engine that is too weak," the specialist says.

[...]

* More than C$730 million in military orders received

* Contracts for 37 full-flight simulators received

* 108 RSEUs for Training and Services/Civil

Montreal, April 7, 2008 – (NYSE: CGT; TSX: CAE) – CAE has ended fiscal 2008 (April 1, 2007 to March 31, 2008) with strong order activity in all its segments, including CAE’s military segments attaining total orders of over C$730 million. On the civil equipment side, during the month of March the company received two new orders for full-flight simulators (FFSs), bringing the fiscal year total to 37. The Training and Services/Civil segment increased its yearly average of RSEUs (Revenue Simulator Equivalent Unit) to 108 throughout its global network of training centres.

“Offering the industry’s most comprehensive portfolio of simulation products and training services has enabled CAE to enjoy a strong year in all our business segments,” said Robert E. Brown, President and Chief Executive Officer, CAE. “Our fiscal 2008 results clearly show that we have balance and diversification between civil and military markets, and CAE is truly unique in the global nature of our business. The new order intake, particularly in the military segments, gives us a strong base for fiscal 2009.”

CAE awarded new military contracts valued at over C$80 million

During the month of March, CAE was awarded a series of military orders, including contracts with the U.S. Navy, U.S. Army, U.S. Coast Guard and other international prime contractors for a range of simulation products and training services.

The U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) awarded CAE with a contract to provide C-130 aircrew and maintenance training at CAE’s C-130 Tampa Training Center. CAE will provide the USCG with comprehensive aircrew training, including pilot/co-pilot, flight engineer and loadmaster initial qualification.

Korean Aerospace Industries (KAI) has contracted CAE to assist with their development of P-3C training systems for the Korean Navy.

The U.S. Navy has exercised additional contract options for CAE USA to design and manufacture an additional MH-60S operational flight trainer and MH-60S weapons tactics trainer. CAE is under contract to develop a range of both MH-60S and MH-60R helicopter training systems for the U.S. Navy.

The U.S. Army Program Executive Office for Simulation, Training, and Instrumentation (PEO STRI) has exercised a contract option for CAE USA to provide maintenance and support services to the 160th Special Operation Aviation Regiment – Airborne.

Finally, the NATO Airborne Early Warning and Control Force in Europe has contracted CAE to provide upgrades, maintenance and support services for the E-3A AWACS simulator located in Germany.

A number of additional contracts included in this amount have been signed and details will be announced in the near future.

[...]

TrianGraphics today announces the releases of the new version 2.0 of Trian3D Builder – a database generation system for detailed 3D terrains of arbitrary size.

After recently having announced a distribution partnership with Antycip, the new release is the next major step forward in the progression of the Trian3D product line.

One of the new features of this major release are advanced roads created from profiles with markings and automatically generated crossings. The building generation has also been further improved with several building levels and roof types for an even more realistic look. The new multitexturing feature permits very high texture resolutions by blending texture layers in the shaders of the graphics card.

A major code refactoring and updating to the latest OpenSceneGraph version prepares Trian3D Builder for future developments.

Managing director Stephan Kussmaul says: "We are especially proud about this new version of Trian3D Builder. This release not only provides a multitude of new features, but it also sets a solid basis for all future developments."

[...]

By Roger Highfield, Science Editor
Last Updated: 7:01pm BST 22/04/2008

Note: Go on the original article page for the actual links to videos 

It is now possible to stroll around a computer recreation of ancient Pompeii without going anywhere at all, thanks to a "smart floor" that could be the next breakthrough for the computer games industry.
  
Cyberwalk allows users to move in any direction without leaving the platform
After three years and £1.3 million, the "cyberwalk" platform, measuring 4.6 metres square, has been developed that allows people to crawl, walk or stroll in the same place.

It could find a host of uses in combination with virtual reality methods, from helping rehabilitate patients to developing a real life version of the fictional Star Trek "holodeck".

The problem with using a computer to create a virtual environment, by piping images to a head mounted display, is that it is difficult to let someone walk around your alien moon or inside the heart of a cardiac patient without something like the cyberwalk.

Now engineers have taken one non step for man and one giant leap for the games industry. The device was built by Martin Schwaiger. in the EU funded "cyberwalk" project coordinated by Dr Marc Ernst at the Max Planck Institute for Biological Cybernetics, in Tubingen, Germany.

[...]

The visitors were no longer allowed to visit the original cave Santimamiñe since 2006, because it had been deteriorated along the time due to environmental factors and to structural damage due to human intervention.  

Virtualware team carried out various stages of a technically highly complex and long process.  Virtual Reality technology has enabled the cave to be recreated extremely accurately. Laser scanning technology was used to collect data and multimedia cards are fitted into, including all the geological, archaeological elements and cave paintings. The company Virtualware has developed this innovative application combined with a huge stereoscopic screen by means of which visitors feel as if they are actually inside the prehistoric cave. It is an impressive diffusion media that makes the cave and its natural environment known and it also becomes a tourist attraction. It has appealed more than 3.200 persons during the first month since the opening