Simulation

Computer-based, virtual reality simulation is used in wide variety of fields where practical or costs limitations make it impossible to operate in the real world. Gaming and education, but also specific training for delicate tasks, are areas where simulation provides clear benefits. However, the simulation of complex tasks require multi-modal, immersive systems that enhance the user's perception of the virtual world and her ability to interact with it.

A successful virtual reality environment must closely match the complexity of the task it simulates, and present the user with a convincing representation of the virtual world that engages all the relevant senses. The combination of perfectly synchronized visual, tactile and auditory information is particularly relevant to the simulation of tasks that involve a high-level of hand-eye coordination. Surgical simulators, whose goal is to teach students delicate gestures and evaluate their performance, are a good example of the need to combine visual simulation with gesture tracking and force-feedback.

CHAI3D enables developers to combine visual, haptic and auditory feedback in a unified simulation framework that provides each object with a set of appearance, physical and sound properties required to enrich the simulated environment. The versatility of CHAI3D makes it suitable for both educational and commercial projects.

Reference

Stanford University Experimental Haptics class (CS277)
Hansen Medical robotic catheter control console (Sensei)