Science Group 1 continues on its journey of success make no mistake about it SG1 follows the guiding principles and objectives of the Real U3A those of education, learning and member contribution. Super co-ordinator General Jim Spray having previously forged links with Nottingham University has gone that extra step and created a relationship now with Nottingham Trent University. This month saw final year undergraduates from NTU bring along the following : –
Virtual Reality Driving Simulator:
Screening for Levels of Driver Fitness in Geriatrics
Introduction
This project has been constructed to test the driver fitness of both young drivers against elderly drivers (commonly referred to as wrinkly drivers) through the means of a virtual reality driving simulator. It is composed of 3 main components; the first is the test itself (software) which has been designed within a game engine specifically for this purpose. The second component is a head-mounted display (virtual reality headset) called the “Oculus Rift” which will be the display for the testing. The final part will be a steering wheel and pedals, just like a regular car however without a handbrake or gears, only steering, throttle and brake will be necessary to operate the vehicle in the simulator.
Purpose of Investigation
The nature of this investigation is to discover if using a methodology such as this can be utilised to determine if a driver is fit for vehicle use or not. As opposed to traditional methodology of examining a driver after an accident to see if his/her physical abilities were to blame. By potentially adding this additional examination to a standard medical examination, the results could determine if a driver is a danger to themselves and others, more importantly before an accident can occur.
What is Virtual Reality?
Virtual reality or virtual realities (VR), which can be referred to as immersive multimedia or computer-simulated reality, replicates an environment that simulates a physical presence in places in the real world or an imagined world, allowing the user to interact in that world. Virtual realities artificially create sensory experiences, which can include sight, touch, hearing, and smell.
NTU Student Monitors SG1 Group Member Under Test
NTU Student Checking Results During Simulator Test
Two NTU Final Year Students follow Another SG1 Member Did he Hit a Tree?
SG1 Research Project by Bob McEwan
Pulling on our own resources and talent Bob McEwan gave a superb presentation on “The changing world of work and the new Industrial Revolution” A brief history of the changes in working practices over the years was brought bang up to date with further presentation on the way we are changing our work ethic in a modern society. The use of AI (Artificial Intelligence) was well covered along with global resourcing of a workforce through computing, no longer are companies reliant on staff from their own locality the humble Laptop and computing has changed the world forever. This excellent presentation which created a lively discussion amongst SG1 group members on the possible future progress of scientific development
Bob McEwan Preparing for his Presentation with SG1 Member Bat Girl using the Free JGC Wi-Fi