AI Door Greeter The VAR Lab developed an AI Door Greeter, a Python-based application designed to welcome lab members as they arrive. The system can recognize trained lab members, greet them by name, display their title, and play custom intro music of their choice. It also shows useful local information, including the current weather and
Art Installation: Interactive Projection for Gallery Spaces The VAR Lab developed an interactive projector installation for the Spring 2026 Yahn Art Show, using a depth camera and Processing 4 to connect physical artwork with responsive digital information. The installation used custom software to detect when a viewer crossed in front of an artwork. When activated,
Projector Games: Interactive Projection Systems The VAR Lab developed a set of projection-based systems for interactive displays, immersive environments, and responsive floor experiences. The first system uses a projector aimed at four whiteboards, with content projection-mapped to a defined outline. This setup can be used to display information, create “virtual window” scenes, or align digital
VR180 Videos: Immersive Media for Local Experiences The VAR Lab creates immersive VR180 and VR360 video content designed to place viewers directly inside real-world environments and experiences. Using a modified QooCam for VR180 capture and an Insta360 Pro 2 for VR180 and VR360 production, the lab has filmed a variety of immersive videos, including sledding,
Replica Liberty Bell Scan: 3D Digitization for Acoustic Research The VAR Lab used an Artec Eva structured-light scanner to 3D scan the replica of the Liberty Bell located in the Advanced Manufacturing and Innovation Center (AMIC). This project was completed in collaboration with Jon Young at University Park as part of research exploring how the
Shoe Scanning: 3D Digitization for Custom Footwear Through a connection with Innovation Commons at Penn State Behrend, the VAR Lab supported Emily and her dad, Thad, in exploring a more accessible solution for Emily’s custom footwear needs. Because Emily has a leg length difference, she requires custom shoes, which can be expensive to produce. Using
Spider Measuring: 3D Scanning for Ecological Research The VAR Lab used a Space Spider structured-light scanner from Artec 3D to create a high-resolution 3D scan of a wolf spider specimen, supporting research at Penn State Behrend focused on measuring abdominal surface area with greater precision. The specimen was provided by Dr. Lynne Beaty, with measurements
ARVIS: AI-Powered Digital Human The VAR Lab is developing ARVIS, an AI-powered digital human designed to support communities in rural areas where internet access may be inconsistent or limited. ARVIS combines a locally hosted large language model with a realistic digital human interface, giving users a face to talk to while accessing information and support.
Office Double: High-Resolution 3D Space Capture The VAR Lab completed a high-resolution 3D scan of an office suite in AMIC using a FARO Focus S laser scanner. This project created a detailed digital record of the space that can support future planning, visualization, and evaluation of potential uses for the area. By capturing the office
3D-Printed CIMT Constraint Orthosis The VAR Lab is developing a custom 3D-printed constraint orthosis in collaboration with Fulbright Scholar Bibiana Mayer Steckel to support research related to Constraint-Induced Movement Therapy (CIMT). This project explores how 3D scanning, digital modeling, and 3D printing can be used to create a more customized and child-friendly alternative to traditional
