Mixed reality for research and science communication
The Institute of Vehicle Concepts offers immersive technologies as a research service to develop and evaluate innovative vehicle concepts as digital prototypes in virtual experiments. Our mixed reality approach combines virtual reality applications with physical elements such as vehicle seats, enabling us to investigate a wide range of research questions. For example, user requirements can be researched in detail. By visualising future scenarios for operational environments, we can also show vehicle concepts in a different context, which goes beyond the possibilities of physical prototypes and can include systemic aspects.
The digital age makes it possible to create realistic, interactive scenarios for complex research questions. Using immersive technologies, we are able to visualise complex vehicle models and environments in real time, create precise, controlled test conditions and develop immersive, gamified tasks for test subjects. We also use mixed reality for vivid science communication - for example when presenting digital twins of vehicle concepts. In this way, we save on raw materials and transport costs and make it easy to experience research findings.
Interactive visualisation
We not only make it possible to explore vehicle concepts from all angles - from detailed analyses of individual components to virtual tours of complete prototypes - but also to create customisable event scenarios. Whether vehicle configurators, comparison scenarios, ergonomics tests or interactive product presentations: We customise every simulation to your requirements.
Our interdisciplinary skillset includes:
- 3D modelling, texturing & topology optimisation for high-performance rendered VR models
- Interaction design & UX conception for intuitive, motivating user guidance
- Programming & implementation of tracking systems to implement haptic components or foot tracking
- Conducting and analysing user studies to validate your concepts
Controlled test series
Mixed reality creates reproducible, standardised framework conditions for user tests and test subject studies. Variable environmental factors such as light, noise levels or traffic conditions can be defined digitally in order to systematically analyse their effects.
Gamified research environments
Motivating, game-based tasks increase participant interaction and enable realistic decisions to be made in immersive scenarios. Compared to traditional methods such as discrete choice analyses or standardised surveys, the gamification elements integrated into mixed reality promote the engagement of test subjects, which can lead to improved data quality and differentiated insights into user behaviour - without the effort of producing physical prototypes.
The DLR Scenario Lab
The Scenario Lab at our STEP site offers a powerful infrastructure for immersive vehicle research. Equipped with state-of-the-art VR hardware, high-performance computers and precise real-time tracking systems, we create the technical conditions for realistic studies with test subjects or visualisations for stakeholders.