The recent introduction of commercial mixed reality technology by companies such as Meta and Apple marks the dawn of a new era in computing. Devices like the Quest 3 and Vision Pro headsets, boasts features like passthrough cameras and depth sensors, which enable wearers to not only view virtual worlds, but also enhance the world around them.ÌýÌý
At the "Engage" Lecture on the 24th of January 2024, Dr. LlÅ·r ap Cenydd unveiled the development of a Mixed Reality Aquarium, a project in collaboration with Meta. LlÅ·r elaborated on how he built upon his earlier Ocean Rift VR application to enable users to transform any space into a dynamic virtual aquarium. The app offers a selection of diverse environments, such as a coral reef, a prehistoric ocean, and habitats featuring the majestic beluga whale and great white shark. Users can place virtual windows throughout their room, creating portals that give the appearance of looking directly into these vivid underwater worlds.Ìý
Throughout the presentation, LlÅ·r explained how he enabled the app to map out and modify the user’s room, generate a virtual environment, implemented hand tracking, various underwater visual effects, and develop life-like creatures using artificial intelligence.Ìý
The audience was particularly captivated by the Beluga whales. In the , they are 100% procedurally animated and exhibit a remarkable level of intelligence and responsiveness. These virtual creatures dynamically interact with the room layout, displaying curiosity towards the player which enhances the sense of immersion. Players can drop hoops into the water, which the whales swim through. As a result, attendees departed the event not only inspired but also eager to experience firsthand the enchanting blend of technology and creativity that mixed reality can offer.Ìý
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Engage – a series of lectures on a range of Engineering, Computing and Design topics, organised by Â鶹´«Ã½¸ßÇå°æ's IEEE Student Branch and School of Computer Science and Engineering.Ìý