Case Studies

An expert in motor control and biomechanics, specialising in Parkinsons, Dr Will Young (psychologist) explains his current research work and the opportunities for significant developments from using VSimulators at University of Exeter

University of Exeter PhD student Karen Faulkner used the VSimulator facility at Exeter Science Park as an evaluation test of a new inertial measurement unit (IMU), developed as part of her EPSRC funded research project. The project involves the development of a new portable data acquisition (DAQ) system for monitoring vulnerable bridge infrastructure during a storm event.

PhD student Naser Taleshi is using the Exeter VSimulator to explore the balance and control methods used by people standing or walking on moving surfaces.

Virtual Reality is an enabling technology rapidly growing in its sophistication and reach in the characterisation of pedestrian behaviour on flexible structures such as footbridges. Dr Mateusz Bocian explores developments from the early use of virtual reality and a treadmill, through to future opportunities in the development of the VSimulators research facility.

Scientists have used the Exeter VSimulator to capture vibration data for translation into a musical score as part of an Arts & Culture Creative Fellowship looking at novel ways to explore science.

PhD student Joao Mineiro has been awarded an EPSRC-funded studentship to explore whether virtual reality can be used in the treatment of chronic pain.

PhD student Sharareh Ghanbari is using the University of Bath VSimulator to explore the influence that temperature and humidity have on work performance, wellbeing and productivity in office buildings.

University of Bath PhD student Kaveh Heshmati is conducting research into occupant comfort in tall buildings using the globally unique VSimulators facilities, which are designed to simulate realistically wind-induced vibrations in tall buildings. His research will use the VSimulators facility at the University of Bath.

University of Exeter PhD student Nimmy Abraham will be using the VSimulator and Exeter Bridge facilities at Exeter Science Park to explore the vibration comfort of a person walking, bobbing and jumping on a vibrating structure.