New technology brings unique VR simulation experiences
Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington recently acquired a NOVA (virtual vehicle) device which puts you inside a realistic VR environment that can spin in 360 degrees.
In 2022, Eight360 installed a NOVA device at the University to conduct unique research projects in VR simulation and training in collaboration with Eight360.
Senior Lecturer in Software Engineering Dr Craig Anslow is leading projects in VR simulation, and is the research lead for this project using the NOVA device. He says the University is the first to conduct research using the NOVA device and has been doing so since 2020.
“There are less than 10 devices deployed around the world, making it a rare training device,” Dr Anslow says.
“It is a unique untethered VR simulation experience that can rotate 360 degrees. The NOVA lets you experience things that you can’t easily do in real life, such as flight and vehicle training, and medical simulation among others.”
Founder and CTO of Eight360, Terry Miller, is an engineering graduate of the University.
“As an Engineering graduate of Victoria University of Wellington, it has been awesome to continue working with the University, and I am proud to be able to give the next generation of students the opportunity to get hands-on with world-leading technology that was developed right here in Wellington,” Terry says.
Over the past few years there have been three research projects using the NOVA device within the School of Engineering and Computer Science. The School is currently working with other groups in the University such as Health, Biology, Psychology, and Chemistry on interdisciplinary projects using the device.
Learn more about how the Faculty of Engineering works with Eight360: