In discussing general system concepts, I will explore virtual reality as
a system. Virtual reality is immensely important in many business and
non-profit settings -- it allows users to experience three dimensional
settings through simulation. These simulations are visual for the most
part, but some have auditory components. Virtual reality puts the user
in another world, imaginary or real, with the same proportions and sizes
that they are used to experiencing. Through using virtual reality,
users are able to encounter experiences they would not be able to
otherwise, this allows for further learning and development in
education, healthcare, and scientific areas, among others [1].
Virtual
reality is not without its kinks, though. It is often difficult to
control image resolution and bandwidth in a virtual reality system,
making development difficult sometimes. Some of the devices used in a
virtual reality system include database gloves, handheld wands and
joysticks, as well as head-mounted displays. Several categories of
virtual reality have also been identified, some of these include
interaction, artificiality, simulation, and immersion of the entire
body. Virtual reality also incorporates feedback, voice recognition and
interaction with other users, which furthers the development,
exploration, and communication between users. Many movies have
incorporated virtual reality, including The Matrix. In addition, virtual
reality systems have been therapeutic in helping PTSD victims readjust
to life after war, and people suffering from acrophobia, the fear of
leaving the house [1].
An example of a virtual reality system
creating a real difference is the virtual fieldwork being compiled about
the earthquake in Haiti. By using data created by scanning the ground
in Haiti, scientists have used a virtual reality system to create a
three dimensional map of Haiti which will eventually be able to
determine why there was a "lack of surface rupture" uncommon in earth
quake history, in Haiti. The system inputs the data it takes in from
scanning the ground, processes it, and then output takes place through
observation. The virtual reality system receives feedback like any other
general system [2].
Another example of a virtual reality system
is "The Egyptian Oracle" an avatar-like experience created by students,
funded by a non-profit educational organization, which puts users in
Egypt's earliest days both visually and with audio. Users are able to
walk around and experience this environment as it was [3].
Virtual
reality systems are not only useful for entertainment, but for
educational, scientific and developmental purposes in many industries.
Like all systems, virtual reality goes through processes including
input, output, and feedback [1].
[1] Virtual Reality, www.http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Virtual_reality
[2] Virtual Reality helps reveal key details about Haiti Earthquake, http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/48060375/ns/technology_and_science-science/#.UASgLPVv7vE
[3] A virtual reality history lesson, http://www.northeastern.edu/news/2012/07/oracle/
No comments:
Post a Comment