Our Projects
GPGPU image processing:
We are developing an exciting new prototype process to help the NDT (Non Destructive Testing) market read data from x-ray machines or (or other internal cavity scanning tools) and displaying it in such a way that defects can be easily identified using GPGPU rendering techniques. This is achieved by turning the read data into a complex mesh, then associating it with a material such as glass in a professional modelling package such as 3ds Max. This new model is then importing into a GPGPU rendering system utilising 4 Tesla units and by using a virtual lighting system, the defects stand our prominently as "bubbles". We expect that the application will exist in the "cloud" such that the user just needs a broadband connection and an internet browser to access the session. Therefore, it is possible to collaboratively and globally share the experience with end-users, suppliers or consultants. Neither host nor the sharing community requires expensive native software or high performance workstations to access the session
We would like to develop the application to include a quantitative tool to categorise the sample in terms of a configurable rule-based spread of defects or filtered defect size which would require plenty of coding. Also we would need to develop a front-end application so individual logins can be created and a collaborative area embedded to store communication threads. Moreover, our current work flow is quite complicated and requires exporting and importing between different applications. We need to develop a method of automating this process to reduce the human interventions required and to get results faster.
Kinect:
We are developing a module to integrate the Microsoft Kinect System into our visualisation facility to research how gesture based devices improve the level of interaction with immersive technologies. Currently at NVision, navigation and selection instructions are activated via a tracked-wand but as users become more familiar with gesture-based instructors, it is important that our systems are capable of being adapted to this technology. We are also investigating how we can integrate basic performance-capture using the Kinect system with low-cost 3D technology. This would add a very interesting feature for the creative arts sector to exploit as physical human expression can influence the visual environment in the virtual world far more radically and dynamically than in the real world and this could lead to some exciting collaborative installations, globally - the ability to inter-connect the environmental experiences of players around the world, through a gesture based network of visualisation pods.
Unity 3D Game Engine:
We are investigating how 3D technology can be applied to improve the visitor experience of areas of archaeological significance where the site is inaccessible due to the fragility of the ruins or there is not of the original environment left for people to see. Our pilot project begins with the development of a 3D model of a Roman Temple in 3DS Max. We will transfer this model into a games engine called Unity 3D that will enable the user to navigate around the area with high quality graphics and possibly pass over comment tabs that will communicate information about the temple. The real power of using this format is in the flexibility of distribution. The content can be embedded as a fully interactive web-player on a website; downloadable as an Android / iPhone App. or available on site as a fixed visual installation. The scene can even be played in our ActiveCube for the ultimate immersive experience. The content is also scalable – more scenes, features and detail can be added over time and set against revenues rather than initial capital costs. The raw content can also be tailored to purpose and audience e.g. as an education resource for children, for the visitor experience or promotion of the site. Beyond that step, we would research the use of augmented reality for applications when visitors may need more visual cues to make the experience more engaging. By creating a 3D model of the site linked to GPS or other positional indicators, it would be possible to walk along a preset path that does not endanger the site and by holding up a smart phone or tablet, it would be possible to see a depiction of the particular building at that location along with a commentary or pop-up notes.
