Mixed reality for research and science communication
Immersive technologies such as augmented, virtual or mixed reality enable the visualisation of complex scenarios or vehicle models. The interactive environments, which can be visualised in real time, create precise, controlled test conditions and enable the development of immersive, gamified tasks for test subjects. In addition to the visualisation of vehicle concepts, possible future scenarios can also be depicted. This makes it possible to show test subjects the vehicles in a system context and thus investigate dependencies between the vehicle and the framework conditions. In addition to the advantages for the research content, the use of virtual applications can also result in savings in the transport and construction of prototypes, depending on the study design, and thus optimise raw materials, emissions and costs. We also use mixed reality to communicate science in a vivid way - for example in the presentation of digital twins or with the aforementioned future scenarios, in which research statuses can also be experienced in a low-threshold way.
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.