The way we interact with the world has always influenced technological development. The next step in this evolution are mixed, augmented, and virtual realities that fundamentally change the way we view and manipulate data by removing the separation between content and user. With virtual reality (VR), users can dive into completely immersive artificial realities, which allows visits to places without access to their real world counterpart. Augmented reality (AR) on the other hand combines digital content with the physical surroundings of a user thus building a unique hybrid space.
These technologies have seen a rapid development in recent years, which opens up new opportunities in a variety of fields ranging from industrial and architectural applications to training and education. They offer new ways of prototyping with virtual mock-ups and generate additional value from already existing data like building models or CAD data, they provide a controlled and safe environment where skills can be acquired and they enable learners to visit places and conduct experiments that could not be experienced otherwise.
The researchers in the Immersive Realities research team explore the potential of these mixed reality technologies. They critically investigate their benefits and limitations from a user-centered perspective and improve user experience and usability by developing new forms of interactions that make optimal use of the immersive nature of these technologies. In addition, they develop prototypes and applications, conduct feasibility and user studies, and offer general consultancy services.
