New PSU project: virtual reality laboratory unveils the secrets of the ancient Jesuit college dungeons
– We will immerse you there right now! – says the Dean of the Faculty of Information Technologies of PSU, Oksana Golubeva, offering to experience a virtual journey.
Special glasses are put on my eyes, and tactile gloves on my hands. And the transition from an ordinary university аудитория to mysterious underground labyrinths happens in an instant. Everything here is as if real: centuries-old stone walls, massive vaulted ceilings, a mystical atmosphere with surprises in the form of a skeleton peeking out from around the corner.
To move in complete darkness, you need to take the candle prepared at the entrance and listen to further instructions. The task is clear: we are going in search of treasure. Along the way, we find an old forged key and try to guess what it opens. One, second, third attempt – and here it is, the coveted chest, where a mysterious scroll is hidden. "Scientia vincere tenebras," reads the inscription on the charter. In Latin translation: "To conquer darkness with knowledge." This is the path that leads to success.
The first success in developing virtual reality software products at the Faculty of Information Technologies of PSU was the fulfillment of an order for UP "Vitebskoblgaz" last year. Under the leadership of Oksana Golubeva, students and undergraduates of the FIT created a virtual simulator for the enterprise to train personnel servicing city gas regulating points. The successful experience became a stimulating factor for further research. The Faculty of Information Technologies is located in the buildings of a historical and architectural monument – the former Jesuit Collegium, which after restoration turned into a popular tourist complex. Among the most popular is the excursion through the dungeons. So why not create its virtual version in the form of an exciting quest?
Demand generated supply. The innovative project was developed by second-year students Vitaly Kuzmich and Dmitry Valkovich in collaboration with the PSU tourist center. And the university purchased special equipment for the virtual reality laboratory together with IT companies Andersen and ITS Partner.