News and projects from the Immersive Technology unit
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
Through a connection with Innovation Commons at Penn State Behrend, we had the opportunity to support Emily and her dad, Thad, in creating a more accessible solution for her custom footwear needs. Because Emily has a leg length difference, she requires custom shoes, which can be incredibly expensive to produce. Using the Space Spider structured
As part of her Fulbright research at the VAR Lab, Bibiana Mayer Steckel is leading a project focused on understanding brain activity during immersive virtual reality experiences. Together with Dr. Christopher R. Shelton, in collaboration with Dr. Erica Edwards, and with the support of Maya Alhasan, the team is investigating best practices for EEG data
The other day our director Christopher R. Shelton and student researcher Remington Orange used an Artec Eva structured light scanner to 3D scan the replica of the Liberty Bell in the Advanced Manufacturing and Innovation Center (AMIC). This was a project with Jon Young at University Park as part of their research exploring frequencies based
The VAR Lab was proud to partner with Young Erie Professionals for an engaging evening focused on the intersection of technology and mental health. Attendees had the opportunity to experience three interactive VR stations designed to highlight the power of virtual reality in supporting wellbeing: • Mindfulness & Relaxation - immersive environments promoting presence and
It's time to make it official! Lauren Cass submitted the evidence to Guinness World Records to verify her record of spending 55 hours watching content in virtual reality. Keep your fingers crossed! We're all wishing her the best of luck for it!
