The C6
The C6 is a 10X10X10 ft. room in which computer generated images are projected on all four walls, the ceiling, and the floor. It is located in the atrium of Howe Hall. In the C6, several participants can explore and interact with a virtual world simultaneously, sharing the experience.
Creating the Illusion
Advanced software and hardware are integrated to create virtual worlds that deliver interactive, fully immersive experiences. Speakers are mounted around the C6, giving participants the added sense of immersion through surround and localized sound.
Seeing In 3D
The computer alternatively renders images for the right eye and left eye very rapidly on the C6 viewing surfaces. Shutter glasses enable 3D viewing by ensuring that the user's left eye and right eye see only the appropriate image.
Wireless Interaction
Participants interact with virtual worlds in the C6 using gloves, wands, and a variety of other haptic devices. These devices are linked to the system via wireless communications, leaving the C6 space clear of anything that detracts from total immersion.
Wide-Open Spaces
With 1,000 cubic ft. of space, the C6 makes it easy to combine real interfaces, such as car and tractor bucks, with virtual environments.
The Glass-Bottom Room
A single 2,000 lb., 2-3/4-inch thick piece of Plexiglas allows images from the bottom projector to appear on the floor of C6.
The Big Picture Show
High-resolution color images are projected onto four walls, ceiling, and floor. The positioning of these projectors accounts for the exterior shape of the C6. Images from the projectors are coordinated to create a seamless real-time graphic display in the C6.
Modular Design
The C6 is built on a modular architecture, in which each screen and its associated technology is a separate unit. One of the screens is mounted on a pneumatically actuated frame to allow for access to the C6.
Collaboration
The C6 is connected to VRAC's other immersive environments, including the four-wall C2 in Black Engineering Building and the auditorium in Howe Hall. The C6 is also connected to the vBNS backbone to support collaborative activities with national and international research laboratories.
VRAC
The mission of the Virtual Reality Applications Center is to become a worldwide leader in appying virtual reality technology to the challenges of science and engineering. We are in the process of developing a unique virtual reality facility dedicated to VR-based collaboration. The facility includes the C2, a four-wall projection system; the C6, a six-sided, fully immersive environment with back projection on all six surfaces of the room; and a new, state-of-the-art auditorium designed for teaching and research in VR-based collaboration.
