Exploring Arctic Cultures: Constructing a Virtual World for the Geode, a 3D Virtual Reality Theatre
With the establishment of multi-media, web-based learning environments and virtual worlds projected in 3D, new opportunities have been created that can be used to excite public interest in archaeology and world cultures. In 2008-2009, Dessault Systemes sponsored a competition for the design of 3D vi...
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| Format: | Text |
| Language: | English |
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| Online Access: | http://citeseerx.ist.psu.edu/viewdoc/summary?doi=10.1.1.629.6552 http://www.caa2009.org/articles/levy_contribution237_a.pdf |
| Summary: | With the establishment of multi-media, web-based learning environments and virtual worlds projected in 3D, new opportunities have been created that can be used to excite public interest in archaeology and world cultures. In 2008-2009, Dessault Systemes sponsored a competition for the design of 3D virtual worlds that would focus on archaeology, history, science and technology. Ultimately, the winners of this competition would have their creations exhibited in Paris at La Geode, the world’s largest virtual reality centre. Located in the Parc de la Villette at the Cité des Sciences et de l'Industrie in Paris, La Geode houses a spherical theatre with a newly designed 3D projection system. Installed in 2007, the 180-degree screen is over 25 meters wide and provides attendees with a unique 3D immersive experience of past worlds and civilizations. The authors were one of ten groups selected to participate in this competition. This paper will discuss factors which constrained the authors during the development of a virtual world that explores Arctic Culture. Specifically, this research considers how competition requirements (user interactions, financial resources, hardware and software) directed the development of this virtual world. Also, strategies are suggested for improving the virtual experience of audience members in large venues containing several hundred seats. |
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