Research Project: Haptic Effects for Gaming
Haptics allow users to literally touch and feel the physical characteristics of computer-generated objects such as texture, roughness, viscosity, and elasticity, among other properties. When applied to video games, it gives players a higher sense of immersion as well as new ways to interact with the game environment. In our research project, players are presented with an arsenal of haptically-enabled wands which they use to interact with a magical world. Among other haptic effects, wizards may cast spells and feel the weight of objects as they lift them in the air. Witches can feel the viscosity of fluid flows in a cauldron as they prepare magic potions. Archers can feel the elastic force of their bows as they attack their enemies, etc.
This project was reviewed in Gamasutra. Click here to view the article.
DISCOVER Laboratory | University of Ottawa
Research Project: Virtual Reality based Pedagogy through Vicon Motion Capture Systems
Having a correct posture at the piano requires a lot of practice to master; however, a visual feedback can help students realize potential problems and adopt a better position when playing the instrument. This project discusses an innovative application of the techniques used for the 3D visualization of piano performances in any possible view, with the purpose of comparing them to an ideal piano playing. It includes the motion capture (MoCap) and reconstruction of the 3D motion and posture of a professional piano player so that it may be compared against the posture and movements of students, by overlaying 2D videos of their recital. This research also addresses the design and implementation of usable user-interfaces.
This project was reviewed on TV at Panorama (TFO).