Department:
Engineering Systems and Environment
Area of research and sub-discipline:
Infrastructure, mixed reality, visualization
About the lab:
Developing immersive visualizations tools that help visualize engineering tasks such as analysis and engineering design of buildings and bridges and training future engineers using emerging technologies such as virtual and augmented reality and computer vision.
Prerequisites:
While prior significant experience is NOT essential for this position, interest and familiarity with any of the following items is helpful:
- Programming languages (e.g. Python, Matlab, C/ C++, Xcode, etc.) and Linux
- Mobile app development
- Game engines (e.g. Unity) and AR/VR tools
- 3D modeling and visualization
- Computer vision, image and signal processing, machine learning
Specific project(s) available:
With the continued evolution of technology, there is an increasing demand for cost-effective and flexible tools and solutions that can be used to facilitate engineering analysis and design, and train future engineers. The research we are pursuing centers on leveraging emerging technologies such as virtual and augmented reality (VR/AR) and computer vision to enhance different aspects of engineering processes. The research will focus on exploring relevant technologies and data processing to achieve this goal. Examples of some of the tools and technologies that can be explored include:
• Virtual and Augmented Reality, Microsoft HoloLens
• Cellphones and Mobile Devices
• Computer Vision
• Robotic autonomous systems
The student will have access to and receive training with the suite of tools at our laboratory that include various VR and AR headsets including the Microsoft HoloLens, camera systems, laser scanners, high-performance computing resources, and various sensing technologies. A few of the projects we are currently focusing on where the student can contribute include:
• Developing immersive visualizations for augmented and remote learning of engineering courses
• Using AR and VR for remote engineering work (e.g. inspecting structures)
• Developing smart detection apps for smartphones and drones that use artificial intelligence
The student will also have the opportunity to maximize the learning outcomes through engaging with the current members of the research group and working with graduate students and postdoctoral mentors who support the activities of these projects. These projects are expected to help the student obtain training, experience, and skills in the above-mentioned technologies, while also resulting in products such as demos, apps, code, and research publications.
Web site:
https://engineering.virginia.edu/faculty/devin-k-harris