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16 pages, 2009 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Immersive Cave Environments in VR: A Tool for Exploring Altered States of Consciousness and Creativity in Archaeology

by Nicola De Pisapia, Gabriele Penazzi, Isaias De Jesus Herrera Ibarra, Clara Rastelli and Massimo Zancanaro

Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(24), 11916; https://doi.org/10.3390/app142411916 - 19 Dec 2024

Viewed by 563

Abstract

This study explores the use of immersive Virtual Reality (VR) cave environments to investigate hypotheses concerning altered states of consciousness, creativity, and flexible thinking in archaeological contexts. Building on the premise that ancient humans used caves as sites for rituals involving altered consciousness, [...] Read more.

This study explores the use of immersive Virtual Reality (VR) cave environments to investigate hypotheses concerning altered states of consciousness, creativity, and flexible thinking in archaeological contexts. Building on the premise that ancient humans used caves as sites for rituals involving altered consciousness, we recreated a virtual cave environment to simulate these experiences and examine their impact on participants’ cognitive processes. Participants engaged in pareidolic tasks within both a virtual cave and a virtual open-space environment, allowing for comparative analysis of semantic network organization and subjective experiences. Our findings show that the cave environment elicited higher emotional arousal and spiritual engagement, as well as an improvement in the aspects of creativity and flexible thinking. These results suggest that VR can serve as a powerful tool in archaeology for reconstructing early humans’ experiences and investigating their psychological and cognitive states, thus providing new insights into their use of caves for mind-altering or ritualistic purposes. This interdisciplinary approach contributes to both cognitive archaeology and the development of immersive VR technologies in scientific research. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Virtual, Augmented, and Mixed Reality: Immersive Applications and Innovative Techniques)

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17 pages, 4264 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Interactive Modelling in Augmented Reality with Subdivision Surfaces and Advanced User Gesture Recognition

by Alessio Cellupica, Marco Cirelli, Oliviero Giannini and Pier Paolo Valentini

Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(24), 11873; https://doi.org/10.3390/app142411873 - 19 Dec 2024

Viewed by 400

Abstract

The paper discusses an integrated methodology to implement an interactive augmented reality 3D modelling environment with natural interaction, empowered by real-time gesture recognition. The methodology is developed from a geometry-sculpting algorithm based on the use of the subdivision surfaces approach to combine the [...] Read more.

The paper discusses an integrated methodology to implement an interactive augmented reality 3D modelling environment with natural interaction, empowered by real-time gesture recognition. The methodology is developed from a geometry-sculpting algorithm based on the use of the subdivision surfaces approach to combine the ease and versatility of interactive modelling even of complex shapes, while maintaining high geometric continuity and smoothness. The interaction with the deformable elements of the geometry’s control cage to be divided uses an optimised version of the Grasp Active Feature/Object Active Feature algorithm developed from hand tracking and gesture recognition based on zero-invasive stereo-infrared techniques. Modelling, combined with an augmented reality environment, allows the modification of geometries having real objects as a reference and, in any case, a general spatial awareness during activities. The methodology was implemented and tested using an advanced mixed-reality headset, the Varjo XR-4, with hi-resolution pass-through and a second-generation Ultraleap for accurate and precise hand tracking. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Virtual, Augmented, and Mixed Reality: Immersive Applications and Innovative Techniques)

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24 pages, 9477 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Development of a VR360 Ecological System for Learning Indigenous Cultures and Environmental Conservation

by Wernhuar Tarng and Jen-Chu Hsu

Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(22), 10582; https://doi.org/10.3390/app142210582 - 16 Nov 2024

Viewed by 713

Abstract

The cultures and religious beliefs of Taiwanese indigenous peoples are deeply rooted in ecological protection and environmental ethics. Indigenous peoples emphasize reverence for nature, ecological diversity, sustainable living, resource sharing, and sanctity of nature. Integrating environmental education with indigenous culture can promote biodiversity [...] Read more.

The cultures and religious beliefs of Taiwanese indigenous peoples are deeply rooted in ecological protection and environmental ethics. Indigenous peoples emphasize reverence for nature, ecological diversity, sustainable living, resource sharing, and sanctity of nature. Integrating environmental education with indigenous culture can promote biodiversity and ecological conservation while preserving indigenous traditions and fostering sustainable development. This study combined Virtual Reality 360-degree (VR360) technology with indigenous culture to develop a virtual ecological system as a learning tool for environmental education in indigenous elementary schools. The VR360 system simulates the ecological environments of Chichiawan Creek and the Atayal Nanshan Tribe in the mountainous regions of northern Taiwan to provide students with immersive experiences that enhance their learning interest and motivation. Through interactive operations, they can observe the appearance, characteristics, and habitual behaviors of Formosan Landlocked Salmon and other conservation animals to understand the relationship between maintaining biodiversity and ecological balance. The VR360 ecological system enhances learning effectiveness and motivation using low-cost cardboard glasses, making it suitable for promoting indigenous culture and environmental education while reducing the digital divide in remote tribal areas. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Virtual, Augmented, and Mixed Reality: Immersive Applications and Innovative Techniques)

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15 pages, 1778 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Effects of the Complexity of 3D Virtual Objects on Visual Working Memory Capacity in AR Interface for Mobile Phones

by Xingcheng Di, Jing Zhang, Shangsong Jiang, Wei Xu and Nuowen Zhang

Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(21), 9776; https://doi.org/10.3390/app14219776 - 25 Oct 2024

Viewed by 676

Abstract

The current study aims to investigate the effects of 3D virtual object complexity on visual working memory capacity in mobile augmented reality (MAR) interfaces. With the popularity of augmented reality technology in mobile applications, 3D virtual elements play a key role in interaction. [...] Read more.

The current study aims to investigate the effects of 3D virtual object complexity on visual working memory capacity in mobile augmented reality (MAR) interfaces. With the popularity of augmented reality technology in mobile applications, 3D virtual elements play a key role in interaction. However, prior studies ignored the correlation between virtual object presentation and visual working memory (VWM). Given that visual working memory capacity is closely related to overall cognitive ability, the current study explored the relationship between the complexity of 3D virtual objects and VWM capacity in AR interfaces. Sixty volunteers participated in a 5-point Likert scale rating to eliminate the interference factors of familiarity, concreteness and similarity in 3D virtual material objects. Then, we further conducted an MAR change detection paradigm experiment and successfully manipulated the complexity of 3D virtual objects and the set size. Thirty-one subjects completed the formal experiment. Three measurements (reaction time, proportion correct, and Cowan’s K) were analyzed for nine experimental conditions (three object complexity levels and three object set sizes). The results confirmed that the visual working memory capacity in mobile AR interfaces is modulated by the complexity of the 3D virtual objects and set size, which decreases with the increase in complexity and set size of the displayed 3D virtual objects. As the complexity of the 3D virtual objects increases, the amount of resources allocated to each item decreases, resulting in a decrease in memory capacity and memory accuracy. This study highlights the effectiveness of VWM capacity in MAR interface design research and provides valuable insights into determining the best way to present 3D virtual objects. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Virtual, Augmented, and Mixed Reality: Immersive Applications and Innovative Techniques)

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11 pages, 1130 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Improving Exposure Therapy Through Projection-Based Augmented Reality for the Treatment of Cockroach Phobia: A Feasibility, Multiple-Baseline, Single-Case Study

by María Palau-Batet, Juana Bretón-López, Jorge Grimaldos, Carlos Suso-Ribera, Diana Castilla, Azucena García-Palacios and Soledad Quero

Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(20), 9581; https://doi.org/10.3390/app14209581 - 21 Oct 2024

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 876

Abstract

Augmented Reality (AR) is helpful for overcoming the challenges of in vivo exposure therapy for Specific Phobia (SP). Specifically, Projection-based AR exposure therapy (P-ARET) allows the individual to face the feared animal without intrusive hardware, the phobic stimulus can be controlled, and it [...] Read more.

Augmented Reality (AR) is helpful for overcoming the challenges of in vivo exposure therapy for Specific Phobia (SP). Specifically, Projection-based AR exposure therapy (P-ARET) allows the individual to face the feared animal without intrusive hardware, the phobic stimulus can be controlled, and it can maximize “variability”, producing a positive effect in the generalization of the results. The goal of this work is to assess the feasibility of P-ARET for SP, comparing multiple stimuli (MS) versus single stimulus (SS) conditions and evaluating the participants’ user experience. Adherence to a daily monitoring app (Emotional Monitor) and preliminary efficacy of the P-ARET treatment were assessed. Four participants diagnosed with SP of cockroaches (DSM-5) were randomly assigned to different baselines. Episodic and daily evaluations were performed. Participants considered the MS condition more aversive but more effective than the SS condition. Adherence to the mobile app was 83% for three participants and 55% for the remaining person. Analyses of non-overlap of all pairs and changes in the functionality levels showed a decrease in the SP symptoms at post-treatment and follow-ups. This study offers preliminary feasibility results for a novel form of P-ARET to treat participants with cockroach phobia, which may also apply to other phobias. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Virtual, Augmented, and Mixed Reality: Immersive Applications and Innovative Techniques)

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19 pages, 10602 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effects of Gradual Spatial and Temporal Cues Provided by Synchronized Walking Avatar on Elderly Gait

by Dane A. L. Miller, Hirotaka Uchitomi and Yoshihiro Miyake

Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(18), 8374; https://doi.org/10.3390/app14188374 - 18 Sep 2024

Viewed by 608

Abstract

Aging often leads to elderly gait characterized by slower speeds, shorter strides, and increased cycle; improving gait can significantly enhance the quality of life. Early gait training can help reduce gait impairment later on. Augmented reality (AR) technologies have shown promise in gait [...] Read more.

Aging often leads to elderly gait characterized by slower speeds, shorter strides, and increased cycle; improving gait can significantly enhance the quality of life. Early gait training can help reduce gait impairment later on. Augmented reality (AR) technologies have shown promise in gait training, providing real-time feedback and guided exercises to improve walking patterns and gait parameters. The aim of this study was to observe the effects of gradual spatial and temporal cues provided by a synchronized walking avatar on the gait of elderly participants. This experiment involved 19 participants aged over 70 years, who walked while interacting with a synchronized walking avatar that provided audiovisual spatial and temporal cues. Spatial cueing and temporal cueing were provided through distance changes and phase difference changes, respectively. The WalkMate AR system was used to synchronize the avatar’s walking cycle with the participants’, delivering auditory cues matched to foot contacts. This study assessed the immediate and carry-over effects of changes in distance and phase difference on stride length, cycle time, and gait speed. The results indicate that gradual spatial and temporal cueing significantly influences elderly gait parameters, with potential applications in gait rehabilitation and training. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Virtual, Augmented, and Mixed Reality: Immersive Applications and Innovative Techniques)

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27 pages, 20444 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Investigating User Experience of an Immersive Virtual Reality Simulation Based on a Gesture-Based User Interface

by Teemu H. Laine and Hae Jung Suk

Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(11), 4935; https://doi.org/10.3390/app14114935 - 6 Jun 2024

Viewed by 1789

Abstract

The affordability of equipment and availability of development tools have made immersive virtual reality (VR) popular across research fields. Gesture-based user interface has emerged as an alternative method to handheld controllers to interact with the virtual world using hand gestures. Moreover, a common [...] Read more.

The affordability of equipment and availability of development tools have made immersive virtual reality (VR) popular across research fields. Gesture-based user interface has emerged as an alternative method to handheld controllers to interact with the virtual world using hand gestures. Moreover, a common goal for many VR applications is to elicit a sense of presence in users. Previous research has identified many factors that facilitate the evocation of presence in users of immersive VR applications. We investigated the user experience of Four Seasons, an immersive virtual reality simulation where the user interacts with a natural environment and animals with their hands using a gesture-based user interface (UI). We conducted a mixed-method user experience evaluation with 21 Korean adults (14 males, 7 females) who played Four Seasons. The participants filled in a questionnaire and answered interview questions regarding presence and experience with the gesture-based UI. The questionnaire results indicated high ratings for presence and gesture-based UI, with some issues related to the realism of interaction and lack of sensory feedback. By analyzing the interview responses, we identified 23 potential presence factors and proposed a classification for organizing presence factors based on the internal–external and dynamic–static dimensions. Finally, we derived a set of design principles based on the potential presence factors and demonstrated their usefulness for the heuristic evaluation of existing gesture-based immersive VR experiences. The results of this study can be used for designing and evaluating presence-evoking gesture-based VR experiences. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Virtual, Augmented, and Mixed Reality: Immersive Applications and Innovative Techniques)

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18 pages, 7366 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Realistic Texture Mapping of 3D Medical Models Using RGBD Camera for Mixed Reality Applications

by Cosimo Aliani, Alberto Morelli, Eva Rossi, Sara Lombardi, Vincenzo Yuto Civale, Vittoria Sardini, Flavio Verdino and Leonardo Bocchi

Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(10), 4133; https://doi.org/10.3390/app14104133 - 13 May 2024

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 1025

Abstract

Augmented and mixed reality in the medical field is becoming increasingly important. The creation and visualization of digital models similar to reality could be a great help to increase the user experience during augmented or mixed reality activities like surgical planning and educational, [...] Read more.

Augmented and mixed reality in the medical field is becoming increasingly important. The creation and visualization of digital models similar to reality could be a great help to increase the user experience during augmented or mixed reality activities like surgical planning and educational, training and testing phases of medical students. This study introduces a technique for enhancing a 3D digital model reconstructed from cone-beam computed tomography images with its real coloured texture using an Intel D435 RGBD camera. This method is based on iteratively projecting the two models onto a 2D plane, identifying their contours and then minimizing the distance between them. Finally, the coloured digital models were displayed in mixed reality through a Microsoft HoloLens 2 and an application to interact with them using hand gestures was developed. The registration error between the two 3D models evaluated using 30,000 random points indicates values of: 1.1 ± 1.3 mm on the x-axis, 0.7 ± 0.8 mm on the y-axis, and 0.9 ± 1.2 mm on the z-axis. This result was achieved in three iterations, starting from an average registration error on the three axes of 1.4 mm to reach 0.9 mm. The heatmap created to visualize the spatial distribution of the error shows how it is uniformly distributed over the surface of the pointcloud obtained with the RGBD camera, except for some areas of the nose and ears where the registration error tends to increase. The obtained results indicate that the proposed methodology seems effective. In addition, since the used RGBD camera is inexpensive, future approaches based on the simultaneous use of multiple cameras could further improve the results. Finally, the augmented reality visualization of the obtained result is innovative and could provide support in all those cases where the visualization of three-dimensional medical models is necessary. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Virtual, Augmented, and Mixed Reality: Immersive Applications and Innovative Techniques)

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14 pages, 3573 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Participatory Exhibition-Viewing Using Augmented Reality and Analysis of Visitor Behavior

by Chun-I Lee, Yen-Hsi Pan and Brian Chen

Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(9), 3579; https://doi.org/10.3390/app14093579 - 24 Apr 2024

Viewed by 1421

Abstract

Augmented reality (AR) is rapidly becoming a popular technology for exhibitions. The extended content provided through virtual elements offers a higher level of interactivity and can increase the appeal of the exhibition for younger viewers, in particular. However, AR technology in exhibition settings [...] Read more.

Augmented reality (AR) is rapidly becoming a popular technology for exhibitions. The extended content provided through virtual elements offers a higher level of interactivity and can increase the appeal of the exhibition for younger viewers, in particular. However, AR technology in exhibition settings is typically utilized to extend the effects of exhibits, focusing solely on individual experiences and lacking in shared social interactions. In order to address this limitation, in this study, we used AR technology to construct a participatory exhibition-viewing system in the form of an AR mobile application (app), “Wander Into Our Sea”. This system was developed as a component of the 2022 Greater Taipei Biennial of Contemporary Art exhibition titled “Log Into Our Sea”. The app features two modes: exhibition-viewing mode and message mode. The first embodies passive exhibition-viewing while the second offers channels for active participation. The app has three functions: (1) in exhibition mode, visitors passively view the exhibition content through the AR lens, (2) in message mode, visitors can use the AR lens to leave messages in the 3D space of the exhibition to become part of the exhibit, and (3) during the use of either mode, the app collects data on visitor behavior and uploads it to a cloud to create a research database. The third function allowed us to compare the behaviors of exhibition visitors while they used the two modes. Results revealed that without restricting the ways and sequences in which AR content was viewed, there were no significant differences in the duration of viewing, or the distance covered by visitors between the two modes. However, the paths they took were more concentrated in the exhibition-viewing mode, which indicates that this mode encouraged visitors to view the exhibit in accordance with the AR content. In contrast, in message mode, visitors were encouraged to leave text messages and read those left by others, which created disorganized unpredictable paths. Our study demonstrates an innovative application of AR positioning within an interactive exhibition-viewing system, showcasing a novel way to engage visitors and enrich their experience. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Virtual, Augmented, and Mixed Reality: Immersive Applications and Innovative Techniques)

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11 pages, 3044 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Towards the Emergence of the Medical Metaverse: A Pilot Study on Shared Virtual Reality for Orthognathic–Surgical Planning

by Jari Kangas, Jorma Järnstedt, Kimmo Ronkainen, John Mäkelä, Helena Mehtonen, Pertti Huuskonen and Roope Raisamo

Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(3), 1038; https://doi.org/10.3390/app14031038 - 25 Jan 2024

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1147

Abstract

Three-dimensional (3D) medical images are used for diagnosis and in surgical operation planning. Computer-assisted surgical simulations (CASS) are essential for complex surgical procedures that are often performed in an interdisciplinary manner. Traditionally, the participants study the designs on the same display. In 3D [...] Read more.

Three-dimensional (3D) medical images are used for diagnosis and in surgical operation planning. Computer-assisted surgical simulations (CASS) are essential for complex surgical procedures that are often performed in an interdisciplinary manner. Traditionally, the participants study the designs on the same display. In 3D virtual reality (VR) environments, the planner is wearing a head-mounted display (HMD). The designs can be then examined in VR by other persons wearing HMDs, which is a practical use case for the medical metaverse. A multi-user VR environment was built for the planning of an orthognathic–surgical (correction of facial skeleton) operation. Four domain experts (oral and maxillofacial radiologists) experimented with the pilot system and found it useful. It enabled easier observation of the model and a better understanding of the structures. There was a voice connection and co-operation during the procedure was natural. The planning task is complex, leading to a certain level of complexity in the user interface. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Virtual, Augmented, and Mixed Reality: Immersive Applications and Innovative Techniques)

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13 pages, 1288 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Attentional Bias Modification Training in Virtual Reality: Evaluation of User Experience

by María Teresa Mendoza-Medialdea, Ana Carballo-Laza, Mariarca Ascione, Franck-Alexandre Meschberger-Annweiler, Bruno Porras-Garcia, Marta Ferrer-Garcia and José Gutiérrez-Maldonado

Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(1), 222; https://doi.org/10.3390/app14010222 - 26 Dec 2023

Viewed by 1155

Abstract

Recent technological advances have paved the way for incorporating virtual reality (VR) into attentional bias modification training (ABMT) for the treatment of eating disorders. An important consideration in this therapeutic approach is ensuring the ease and comfort of users of the hardware and [...] Read more.

Recent technological advances have paved the way for incorporating virtual reality (VR) into attentional bias modification training (ABMT) for the treatment of eating disorders. An important consideration in this therapeutic approach is ensuring the ease and comfort of users of the hardware and software, preventing them from becoming additional obstacles during treatment. To assess this, 68 healthy participants engaged in an ABMT experiment aimed at evaluating various factors, including usability as well as the participants’ comfort while using the VR equipment, task-induced fatigue, and attitudes towards the technology. Our results indicated a favorable usability level for the ABMT proposed in this study. While their discomfort, anxiety, and fatigue increased during the task, these did not significantly impact its execution. However, heightened anxiety and fatigue were linked to lower evaluations of software usability. Other variables considered in the experiment did not notably affect the task. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Virtual, Augmented, and Mixed Reality: Immersive Applications and Innovative Techniques)

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21 pages, 3273 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Design of an Immersive Virtual Reality Framework to Enhance the Sense of Agency Using Affective Computing Technologies

by Amalia Ortiz and Sonia Elizondo

Appl. Sci. 2023, 13(24), 13322; https://doi.org/10.3390/app132413322 - 17 Dec 2023

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2072

Abstract

Virtual Reality is expanding its use to several fields of application, including health and education. The continuous growth of this technology comes with new challenges related to the ways in which users feel inside these virtual environments. There are various guidelines on ways [...] Read more.

Virtual Reality is expanding its use to several fields of application, including health and education. The continuous growth of this technology comes with new challenges related to the ways in which users feel inside these virtual environments. There are various guidelines on ways to enhance users’ virtual experience in terms of immersion or presence. Nonetheless, there is no extensive research on enhancing the sense of agency (SoA), a phenomenon which refers to the self-awareness of initiating, executing, and controlling one’s actions in the world. After reviewing the state of the art of technologies developed in the field of Affective Computing (AC), we propose a framework for designing immersive virtual environments (IVE) to enhance the users’ SoA. The framework defines the flow of interaction between users and the virtual world, as well as the AC technologies required for each interactive component to recognise, interpret and respond coherently within the IVE in order to enhance the SoA. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Virtual, Augmented, and Mixed Reality: Immersive Applications and Innovative Techniques)

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16 pages, 391 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Performance, Emotion, Presence: Investigation of an Augmented Reality-Supported Concept for Flight Training

by Birgit Moesl, Harald Schaffernak, Wolfgang Vorraber, Reinhard Braunstingl and Ioana Victoria Koglbauer

Appl. Sci. 2023, 13(20), 11346; https://doi.org/10.3390/app132011346 - 16 Oct 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1641

Abstract

Augmented reality (AR) could be a means for a more sustainable education of the next generation of pilots. This study aims to assess an AR-supported training concept for approach to landing, which is the riskiest phase of flying an aircraft and the most [...] Read more.

Augmented reality (AR) could be a means for a more sustainable education of the next generation of pilots. This study aims to assess an AR-supported training concept for approach to landing, which is the riskiest phase of flying an aircraft and the most difficult to learn. The evaluation was conducted with 59 participants (28 women and 31 men) in a pretest–post-test control group design. No significant effect of the AR-supported training was observed when comparing the experimental and the control groups. However, the results show that for the experimental group that trained with AR, higher performance in post-test was associated with higher AR presence and comfort with AR during training. Although both gender groups improved their approach quality after training, the improvement was larger in women as compared to men. Trainees’ workload, fear of failure, and negative emotions decreased in post-test as compared to pre-test, but the decrease was significantly larger in women than in men. The experimental group who used AR support during training showed improved performance despite the absence of AR support in post-test. However, the AR-based training concept had a similar effect to conventional simulator training. Although more research is necessary to explore the training opportunities in AR and mixed reality, the results of this study indicate that such an application would be beneficial to bridge the gap between theoretical and practical instruction. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Virtual, Augmented, and Mixed Reality: Immersive Applications and Innovative Techniques)

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18 pages, 14314 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Wine Production through Virtual Environments with a Focus on the Teaching–Learning Process

by Danis Tapia, Diego Illescas, Walter Santamaría and Jessica S. Ortiz

Appl. Sci. 2023, 13(19), 10823; https://doi.org/10.3390/app131910823 - 29 Sep 2023

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1605

Abstract

This paper focuses on the application of the hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) technique in the winemaking process. The HIL technique provides an effective methodology to test and verify the automatic control of industrial processes in 3D laboratory environments. Two parts are considered: (i) software, which [...] Read more.

This paper focuses on the application of the hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) technique in the winemaking process. The HIL technique provides an effective methodology to test and verify the automatic control of industrial processes in 3D laboratory environments. Two parts are considered: (i) software, which consists of the virtualization of the wine process in order to generate a realistic work environment that allows the student to manipulate the system while visualizing the changes in the process; and (ii) hardware, through which the process control is implemented in ladder language in a PLC S7 1200 AC/DC/RLY (programmable logic controller). Bidirectional Ethernet TCP/IP communication is established, achieving a client–server architecture. This article highlights the main advantages of the HIL technique, such as its ability to simulate complex and extreme scenarios that would be difficult or expensive to recreate in a real environment. In addition, real-time testing of the hardware and software to implement the control system is performed, allowing for fast and accurate responses. Finally, a usability table is obtained that demonstrates the benefits of performing industrial process control work in virtual work environments, focusing the development on meaningful learning processes for engineering students. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Virtual, Augmented, and Mixed Reality: Immersive Applications and Innovative Techniques)

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15 pages, 1212 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Augmented Reality Applications for Synchronized Communication in Construction: A Review of Challenges and Opportunities

by Rita El Kassis, Steven K. Ayer and Mounir El Asmar

Appl. Sci. 2023, 13(13), 7614; https://doi.org/10.3390/app13137614 - 28 Jun 2023

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 2332

Abstract

Many researchers in the construction field have explored the utilization of augmented reality (AR) and its impact on the industry. Previous studies have shown potential uses for AR in the construction industry. However, a comprehensive critical review exploring the ways in which AR [...] Read more.

Many researchers in the construction field have explored the utilization of augmented reality (AR) and its impact on the industry. Previous studies have shown potential uses for AR in the construction industry. However, a comprehensive critical review exploring the ways in which AR supports synchronized communication is still missing. This paper aims to fill this gap by examining trends identified in the literature and by analyzing both beneficial and challenging attributes. This work was performed by collecting numerous journal and conference papers, using keywords including “augmented reality”, “construction”, and “synchronous communication”. The papers were then categorized based on the reported attributes that were indicated to be challenges or benefits. Throughout the analysis, several benefits were consistently reported, including training, visualization, instantly sharing information, decision making, and intuitive interaction. Similarly, several challenges were consistently reported, such as difficulty in manipulation, unfriendly interface, device discomfort, and sun brightness. Regarding other attributes, such as field of view, cost, safety hazards, and hands-free mode, researchers provided divergent reports regarding whether they were beneficial or detrimental to AR communication. These findings provide valuable guidance for future researchers and practitioners, enabling them to leverage AR for synchronized communication in ways that consistently offer value. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Virtual, Augmented, and Mixed Reality: Immersive Applications and Innovative Techniques)

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22 pages, 7522 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Upper Body Pose Estimation Using Deep Learning for a Virtual Reality Avatar

by Taravat Anvari, Kyoungju Park and Ganghyun Kim

Appl. Sci. 2023, 13(4), 2460; https://doi.org/10.3390/app13042460 - 14 Feb 2023

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 4027

Abstract

With the popularity of virtual reality (VR) games and devices, demand is increasing for estimating and displaying user motion in VR applications. Most pose estimation methods for VR avatars exploit inverse kinematics (IK) and online motion capture methods. In contrast to existing approaches, [...] Read more.

With the popularity of virtual reality (VR) games and devices, demand is increasing for estimating and displaying user motion in VR applications. Most pose estimation methods for VR avatars exploit inverse kinematics (IK) and online motion capture methods. In contrast to existing approaches, we aim for a stable process with less computation, usable in a small space. Therefore, our strategy has minimum latency for VR device users, from high-performance to low-performance, in multi-user applications over the network. In this study, we estimate the upper body pose of a VR user in real time using a deep learning method. We propose a novel method inspired by a classical regression model and trained with 3D motion capture data. Thus, our design uses a convolutional neural network (CNN)-based architecture from the joint information of motion capture data and modifies the network input and output to obtain input from a head and both hands. After feeding the model with properly normalized inputs, a head-mounted display (HMD), and two controllers, we render the user’s corresponding avatar in VR applications. We used our proposed pose estimation method to build single-user and multi-user applications, measure their performance, conduct a user study, and compare the results with previous methods for VR avatars. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Virtual, Augmented, and Mixed Reality: Immersive Applications and Innovative Techniques)

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Review

Jump to: Research

20 pages, 772 KiB

Open AccessReview

The Use and Impact of Virtual Reality Programs Supported by Aromatherapy for Older Adults: A Scoping Review

by Lillian Hung, Joey Wong, Karen Lok Yi Wong, Rynnie Cin Ee Son, Mary Van, W. Ben Mortenson, Angelica Lim, Jennifer Boger, Christine Wallsworth and Yong Zhao

Appl. Sci. 2025, 15(1), 188; https://doi.org/10.3390/app15010188 (registering DOI) - 28 Dec 2024

Abstract

Both virtual reality (VR) and aromatherapy have shown significant potential in enhancing the health and well-being of older adults. Aromatherapy has been noted to improve the immersive quality of VR experiences. However, the combined use of these interventions for older adults has not [...] Read more.

Both virtual reality (VR) and aromatherapy have shown significant potential in enhancing the health and well-being of older adults. Aromatherapy has been noted to improve the immersive quality of VR experiences. However, the combined use of these interventions for older adults has not been systematically explored. This scoping review aims to identify existing VR programs supported by aromatherapy and evaluate their outcomes on older adults’ well-being. Following the Joanna Briggs Institute methodology and PRISMA-ScR guidelines, the review included both published and unpublished studies. A search across ten databases yielded 901 publications, from which six studies were analyzed, involving 94 participants with a mean age of 70 to 83 years. Results revealed positive impacts on well-being, cognition, and social engagement. Outcome measures included physical, psychological, emotional, and cognitive aspects like special orientation, stress, happiness, memory, and social interaction. Benefits included enhanced spatial awareness, memory, happiness, and reduced stress. Multisensory VR environments also fostered socialization through shared experiences and nostalgia. However, the individual differences in VR experiences indicate a need for personalized content. Despite promising findings, limited evidence supports clinical application in nursing practice. Further research is required to validate the health benefits of combining VR with aromatherapy. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Virtual, Augmented, and Mixed Reality: Immersive Applications and Innovative Techniques)

25 pages, 728 KiB

Open AccessReview

Using Virtual Reality to Complement Traditional Wheelchair Skills Training Methods: A Literature Review

by Chantal Zorzi, Alexandra Covaci and Gianluca Marcelli

Appl. Sci. 2025, 15(1), 187; https://doi.org/10.3390/app15010187 (registering DOI) - 28 Dec 2024

Abstract

Training wheelchair skills are vital for enhancing independence and safety. Traditional training methods require significant time and resources, limiting accessibility. Virtual reality (VR) offers an innovative solution by simulating real-life environments for training, reducing risks and costs. However, the effectiveness of VR in [...] Read more.

Training wheelchair skills are vital for enhancing independence and safety. Traditional training methods require significant time and resources, limiting accessibility. Virtual reality (VR) offers an innovative solution by simulating real-life environments for training, reducing risks and costs. However, the effectiveness of VR in complementing real-life training remains underexplored. This review investigates how VR can complement traditional wheelchair training by assessing the strengths and limitations of existing VR systems. A literature review of 28 studies on VR applications for wheelchair training from 2017 to 2024 was conducted, focusing on studies that detailed VR environments and training programs. It was found that most VR systems were designed for powered wheelchair users with joystick navigation. VR environments included tasks from basic navigation to complex real-world scenarios. While VR showed potential in improving skills and engagement, challenges included the lack of standard methods for evaluating effectiveness and cybersickness. Overall, VR can be a valuable complementary tool for wheelchair training, especially for powered users. Future research should standardise protocols, and address side effects. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Virtual, Augmented, and Mixed Reality: Immersive Applications and Innovative Techniques)

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