Research Area

Human Factors in Emerging Technologies

Our research in Human Factors in Emerging Technologies focuses on the integration and optimization of cutting-edge technologies like virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR). We delve into how these immersive technologies can be harnessed to improve user interaction and experience. A significant part of our work involves developing advanced training modules for additive manufacturing and assembly lines, utilizing VR and AR to create realistic and engaging training environments. By exploring these emerging technologies, we aim to enhance their usability, accessibility, and overall effectiveness, ensuring they contribute positively to various industrial and educational applications.

Driving Safety

Our research in driving safety is dedicated to enhancing both driver and pedestrian safety through comprehensive studies utilizing our advanced car and bike simulators. We investigate various aspects of driver behavior, vehicle ergonomics, and the interaction between drivers, cyclists, and advanced driver-assistance systems. By analyzing how drivers and cyclists respond to different road conditions, distractions, and in-vehicle technologies, we develop solutions aimed at reducing accidents and improving overall road safety. Our work includes designing user-friendly interfaces, improving driver and cyclist training programs, and exploring the potential of autonomous and semi-autonomous vehicles. Additionally, we focus on pedestrian safety, examining the interactions between vehicles, cyclists, and pedestrians to create safer urban environments. Through our research, we strive to make roads safer and more reliable for all users.

Cognitive Engineering in STEM Education

Our research in Cognitive Engineering in STEM Education is focused on enhancing the learning experience in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields. We explore how cognitive principles can be applied to design educational tools and methods that improve comprehension, retention, and application of complex concepts. Leveraging technologies like VR, AR, and interactive simulations, we create immersive and engaging learning environments tailored to diverse learning styles. Additionally, we emphasize teamwork development among STEM students by applying social and cognitive theory. Our goal is to develop innovative educational strategies that not only make STEM subjects more accessible and enjoyable but also foster critical thinking, problem-solving skills, and effective collaboration. Through our research, we aim to revolutionize STEM education and empower the next generation of scientists, engineers, and technologists.

Active Projects

Enhancing Active Learning in Additive Manufacturing Using an Assisted Virtual Reality Approach

This research project’s goal is to develop VR training software for environmentally controlled agriculture production. The project aims to create a greenhouse environmental control prototype in virtual reality to address the current lack of computer-based, environmental control systems technology in classroom settings and test the efficacy for training in high-risk production scenarios…

Future Grower Technologies: Developing Virtual Reality Support Tools for Controlled Environment Agriculture Systems

This research project’s goal is to develop VR training software for environmentally controlled agriculture production. The project aims to create a greenhouse environmental control prototype in virtual reality to address the current lack of computer-based, environmental control systems technology in classroom settings and test the efficacy for training in high-risk production scenarios…

Completed Projects

Creating a Situation‐Aware Sensing Environment for Cyclists: An Innovative and Cost‐Effective Smartphone‐Based Approach

This research project has developed a prototype for the smartphone-based biker assistance system (BAS). A comprehensive literature review and analysis of crash data from two states (North Carolina and Georgia) were performed. This analysis informed researchers about critical crash scenarios for bicyclists from right turning or frontal slowing down vehicles…

Available Equipment and Resources

Hardware

  • Extended Reality (XR): Head Mounted Devices
    • Virtual Reality (VR): HTC Vive, Meta Quest 2, Meta Quest 3
    • Augmented Reality (AR): Hololens 2
  • Driving Simulator: RDS-1000 Single Seat Sedan
  • Bike Simulator
  • Motion Capture System

Software

  • Unity Game Engine
  • Cognitive 3D