Virtual Reality Techniques Division was created in March 2013 by a group of researchers whose interests significantly reached beyond the topics covered in Photonics Engineering Division.

The Virtual Reality Techniques Division (VRTD) forms and develops new interdisciplinary field related to research of both virtual and augmented reality techniques.

The aim of the VRTD technical and scientific activity is elaboration of new methods for building new devices and their implementation in cooperation with business institutions. Such activities include:

• development of input devices for acquisition, registration and introduction of real-world data into virtual environment

• development of output devices for creation, visualization and immersion in synthetic environment

• development of algorithms for virtual reality environment management

• research on quality of user interface in virtual realities

• research on human-computer and human-human interaction in relation to degree of user’s “immersion” in virtual world

• development of optical measurement techniques with application of incoherent light interferometry for examination of surface microtopography and layer structure of surface objects; also spectroscopy methods and techniques in application for materials measurements and for detecting atmospheric content of health risk and deterioration agents

The innovative methods and device models employing virtual reality techniques will be introduced in many areas such as:

• medicine – for increased effectiveness and automation of diagnostic process, improvement of medical personnel and doctors training efficiency

• multimedia – for educational and entertainment applications both with use of classical television and Internet

• industry – for training stands, hazard detection and decision making aids with application of augmented reality techniques

• cultural heritage – for documentation and educational purposes allowing easier access to Polish and European cultural heritage