Navigating 3-D immersive environments at ATSU

ATSU encourages experimentation in the use of new immersive technology. Whether it is VR (virtual reality), AR (augmented reality), spatial computing, or one of several other technology terms used to describe these immersive environments, ATSU believes it is important to grow our understanding of how digital 3-D representations can improve learning and work. Explore the resources below if you are considering experimenting with immersive environments.

Headsets and Video Devices

There can be a fair amount of overlap between many of the terms used to describe immersive technologies and devices. Thus we have found it helpful to use the following categories:

Read more about VR, AR, and 360° video below. In addition, we encourage anyone interested in these technologies to join our online ATSU community to discuss potential projects and ideas.

ATSU projects/ideas in this area:

  • Meet A.T. Still
  • Virtual patient experiences
  • Learning OMM techniques using VR/AR

Virtual reality (VR)

Virtual reality features a computer-simulated immersive environment. VR uses head mounted displays with sensors to match the computer graphics and audio to the viewer movements. When a viewer’s head turns, the graphics will react accordingly. VR technology can create a convincing, interactive world for the user.

Oculus Quest 2: The Meta Oculus Quest 2 VR headset is an advanced all-in-one virtual reality device that offers an immersive experience with its 3D positional audio, hand tracking, and intuitive controls. With a powerful processor and high-resolution display, it delivers smooth gameplay and stunning graphics. The headset is lightweight and comfortable, making it perfect for extended use. Whether you’re exploring new worlds, working out, or socializing with friends, the Meta Oculus Quest 2 provides a versatile and engaging VR experience

Oculus Quest 3: The Meta Quest 3 VR headset is a top-tier standalone device that offers a significant upgrade from its predecessor. It features a higher-resolution display, a powerful Snapdragon XR2 Gen 2 processor, and color pass-through cameras for high-quality augmented reality experiences. The headset is designed for comfort with a slimmer and more balanced build, making it perfect for extended use. Whether you’re diving into virtual worlds or blending digital elements with your real environment, the Meta Quest 3 delivers an immersive and versatile experience.

Apple Vision Pro: Known for its premium features, the Apple Vision Pro provides an exceptional mixed reality experience with sharp passthrough mode, immersive 3D viewing, and seamless integration with Apple products. 

HTC Vive Pro 2: This high-end VR headset is ideal for PC gamers, offering the crispest screen and superior resolution. It requires a powerful computer to maximize its capabilities, but it delivers an especially immersive VR experience.

Augmented reality (AR)

Augmented Reality simulates computer generated objects and graphics into the real world. An AR headset allows the user to still see their surroundings, while superimposing graphics over the user’s view of the real world. The graphics react to the viewer’s head movement as if they were a physical object.

The visual cues of seeing the real world tends to not cause the nausea and disorientation that some users suffer from VR systems.  

For medical education, AR technology can be used to project anatomical or radiological images onto the body of a student or patient.

Hololens 2: The Microsoft Hololens headset displays 3-Dimensional “holograms” in the real world. The headset uses built in cameras to track the user’s environment and move the graphics to appear to be really there. The cameras can also track the user’s hand movements as controllers that can interact with the AR objects.

The HoloLens 2 is known for its collaboration capabilities, allowing multiple users to view and interact with the same 3D Hologram content.. 

Magic Leap 2: Magic Leap is a US-based company that offers a head-mounted virtual retinal display which superimposes 3D computer-generated imagery over real world objects, by projecting a digital light field into the user’s eye. The Magic Leap 2 headset is designed for enterprise use and features Dynamic Dimming™ technology, a large field of view, and high image quality.

Smart Glasses: Smart glasses are wearable computer glasses that add information to what the wearer sees, seamlessly integrating the digital and physical world through augmented reality (AR).

  • Google Glass Enterprise 2: These glasses are designed for professional use and offer features like an 8-megapixel camera, WiFi, and Bluetooth connectivity.
  • Viture Pro XR Glasses: Known for their excellent video capabilities, these glasses connect with your phone or computer to project a personal display right in front of your eyes.
  • Rokid Max: These glasses offer the widest field of view, making them great for immersive experiences.
  • Chamelo Music Shield: These dimmable smart sunglasses are perfect for music lovers, offering a combination of audio and visual features.
  • Ray-Ban Meta Smart Glasses: Ideal for social media enthusiasts, these glasses come with a built-in camera and voice control.
  • XReal Air 2: These stealthy AR glasses provide a high-quality augmented reality experience.
  • Amazon Echo Frames: Perfect for Alexa users, these audio glasses integrate seamlessly with Amazon’s voice assistant.
  • Nautica Smart Eyewear: These glasses are great for ChatGPT superfans, offering hands-free access to the AI assistant.

360° video

Video shot with a spherical camera allowing 360 degree viewing of the subject matter. 360 video plays through like any other online video, but allows the user to choose where the camera is looking in the scene. Viewers can watch 360 video on any computer, or may choose to use a VR headset to become immersed in the 360 video.

GoPro Max: The GoPro Max 360 camera is a versatile action camera that combines the capabilities of three cameras in one. It captures stunning 360-degree footage in 6K resolution and offers HERO-style video and photos. With features like Max HyperSmooth stabilization, waterproof design up to 16 feet, and premium audio from six mics, it ensures high-quality, immersive content.

Immersive Technology Use at ATSU

ATSU has initiated several projects and is working on more ideas using immersive technologies and environments. 

  • Virtual anatomy courses
  • Dental Novocaine shot placement training
  • Virtual patient experiences enhanced by AI-powered avatars
  • Learning OMM techniques using VR/AR

In addition, we encourage anyone interested in these technologies to join our online ATSU community to discuss potential projects and ideas.