**3.1 3D Ace Studio**

22 Virtual Reality and Environments

VR technology enables users to immerse themselves in an artificial environment simulated by a computer, with the ability to navigate through the environment and interact with objects in it. Two keywords in the field of VR are presence and immersion. VR immerses the user in a simulation so that the user has a sense of being present in the virtual environment. The degree of immersion depends primarily on the computer hardware used whereas presence is achieved if the virtual environment causes the user to suspend disbelief and

A computer system that generates an artificial world that tricks the user into feeling part of it would not be a complete definition of VR because it lacks the vital component of interactivity (Louka & Balducelli, 2001). VR is a highly interactive, computer-based multimedia environment in which the user becomes the participant in a computergenerated world (Kim et al., 2000; Onyesolu, 2009a; Onyesolu & Akpado, 2009). It is the simulation of a real or imagined environment that can be experienced visually in the three dimensions of width, height, and depth and that may additionally provide an interactive experience visually in full real-time motion with sound and possibly with tactile and other forms of feedback. VR is a way for humans to visualize, manipulate and interact with computers and extremely complex data (Isdale, 1998). It is an artificial environment created with computer hardware and software and presented to the user in such a way that it appears and feels like a real environment (Baieier, 1993). VR is a computer-synthesized, three-dimensional environment in which a plurality of human participants, appropriately interfaced, may engage and manipulate simulated physical elements in the environment and, in some forms, may engage and interact with representations of other humans, past, present or fictional, or with invented creatures. It is a computer-based technology for simulating visual auditory and other sensory aspects of complex environments (Onyesolu, 2009b). VR incorporates 3D technologies that give a real-life illusion. VR creates a simulation of real-life situation (Haag et al., 1998). VR is a three-dimensional user interface in which the user can perform actions and experience their consequences. It is a multidimensional real-

time simulation rather than a linear animation with predefined camera movement.

This is what distinguishes VR from recorded, computer generated, images used in films and on television and from real-time computer animation where the user is a passive viewer (Louka & Balducelli, 2001). Unlike pre-rendered images of a 3D environment, the user of a VR system can usually move around freely in a virtual environment. The manner in which a user interacts with a virtual environment depends on the hardware and software used (Louka & Balducelli, 2001). In most cases, an off-the-shelf desktop computer with a 3D graphics acceleration and appropriate software are all that is necessary. This form of VR is often called desktop or fishtank VR (Louka & Balducelli, 2001, Onyeslu & Eze, 2011). In a desktop VR configuration, a 2D pointing device such as a mouse is typically used to select and manipulate objects, choose menu option, etc. Desktop VR is an effective, relatively cheap, option. The desktop VR experience can be taken a step further by using a projector and a large screen to display the virtual environment so that several users can work together in a meeting room or control centre, with one user controlling the computer. The 2D pointing device can also be replaced by a 3D input-device, which may improve usability.

Some 3D graphics cards and software support stereoscopic display, enabling users to view the virtual environment with an enhanced sense of depth using either a desktop display or a suitable projector. Stereoscopic displays typically require that users wear special glasses.

**2. Virtual reality technology** 

accept the computer-generated experience as real.

3D Ace Studio is a subsidiary of Program Ace LLC. 3D Ace studio delivers high quality graphics and programming services for high-end games, movies, etc. 3D Ace Studio's area of expertise includes creation of 2D concept art and design, GUI design, high-poly models for movies and games, 3D environments, low-poly and budget models, characters and creatures, animated next gen 3D movies, 3D SFX for feature and TV films, in-game cut scenes and intro reels, custom entire game development, CG, AI, tools and network programming (http://www.3dace.com).

#### **3.2 3D Web (3DW) technologies**

3DW technologies (3DW) provide a range of services based on interactive 3D computer graphics. 3DW Virtual Reality (VR) and Multimedia solutions provide innovative, dynamic and engaging solutions that improve communication and increase understanding. 3DW have spent so many years providing software and developing solutions in the fields of energy, regeneration and sport. 3DW technologies apply innovative, interactive graphics and software solutions to engage, communicate and entertain (http://www.3dwebtech.co.uk).

#### **3.3 Virtual Heroes Inc. (VHI)**

This is an "Advanced Learning Technology Company" that creates collaborative interactive learning solutions for Federal Systems, Healthcare and Corporate Training markets (http://www.virtualheroes.com/about.asp). VHI applications facilitate highly interactive, self-paced learning and instructor-led, distributed team training on its Advanced Learning Technology (ALT) platform. Major components of this platform include the Unreal® Engine 3 by Epic Games, and Dynamic Virtual Human Technology (DVHT). ALT leverages simulation learning and digital game-based learning paradigms to accelerate learning,

A Survey of Some Virtual Reality Tools and Resources 25

best human resources to provide highest quality of visual content. The leaders of the simulation industry trust EdgedSign to make their graphics (http://www.edgedsign.com)

This is a product of Forterra Systems Inc. Forterra Systems Inc. builds distributed virtual world technology and turnkey applications for defense, homeland security, medical, corporate training, and entertainment industries (http://company.mmosite.com/forterra /index.shtml). Using the On-Line Interactive Virtual Environment (OLIVE) technology platform, customers can rapidly generate realistic three-dimensional virtual environments that easily scale from single user applications to large scale simulated environments supporting many thousands of concurrent users. Forterra's technology and services enable organizations to train, plan, rehearse, and collaborate in ways previously considered

OLIVE combines multimedia, scalable computing and network enabled connectivity to provide a complete IT-ready platform for developing and supporting truly collaborative, multiplayer interactive virtual environments. It is a 3D client-server virtual world platform using PC clients connected to a central server via a network. The architecture scales from a Windows based development environment to large scale Linux clusters. This architecture supports many thousands of concurrent, geographically distributed users

The company offers tools and products for creating massively multi-player online (MMO) environments, virtual worlds, and serious games for major entertainment, corporate, and government clients (Mousa, n.d). Icarus provides next generation technology, tools and production services enabling publishers and marketers to develop immersive environments to create new revenue streams and branding opportunities (http://www.icarusstudios.com/). Icarus Studios products include compatibility with industry standard tools such as 3D Max,

(http://www.webbuyersguide.com/product/brief.aspx?src=rss&kc=rss&id=52841)

**4. The history of hardware components for VR application development** 

Hardware components for VR have evolved since the inception of VR. Hardware components for VR application development are computer workstation, sensory displays, process acceleration cards, tracking system and input devices. Other specialized types of hardware that have been developed or used for VR applications are navigation devices, interaction devices and tactile and force feedback among others (Isdale, 1998; Perry, Smith,

Computer workstation is used to control several sensory display devices to immerse you in 3D virtual environment (Onyesolu & Eze, 2011). A computer workstation is a microcomputer designed for technical or scientific applications. Intended primarily to be used by one person at a time, they are commonly connected to a local area network and run multi-user operating systems. The term workstation has also been used to refer to a

**3.10 On-Line Interactive Virtual Environment (OLIVE)** 

Collada, and other 3D applications with simple editors.

impossible or impractical.

**3.11 Icarus Studios Inc.** 

& Yang, 2004).

**4.1 Computer workstation** 

increase proficiency and reduce costs. DVHT combines best-in-class electronic computer game technology with a digital human physiology engine, digital pharmacokinetic drug models, accurate biomechanical parameters and artificial intelligence subroutines for the most realistic virtual humans available anywhere.
