Speaker:Regis Kopper

Title: Enhancing User Experience in Extended Reality (XR) Towards Transformative Outcomes

Abstract:

Extended reality (XR) technologies, including virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR), are transforming work, education, and training, offering numerous benefits. XR enables cost and risk reduction, improved access and equity, and enhanced productivity and outcomes.

My research focuses on two interdependent thrusts that inform and complement each other. My primary research goal is to guarantee that XR systems facilitate favorable user experiences across diverse scenarios. My secondary objective is to utilize XR techniques in contexts where they can have a transformative impact.

In this presentation, I will give an overview of my research on XR User Experience. This will include the development of effective and user-friendly interaction techniques, optimization of user comfort in VR, and the implementation of customized tangible input devices for virtual object manipulation.

By ensuring the delivery of high-quality XR user experiences, we have the chance to make a tangible impact on real-world critical applications, like public safety and healthcare. Partnering with domain experts and developing cross-disciplinary collaborations is essential to achieve this goal.

I will present my recent research on advanced AR interfaces for first responders. The process we used to partner with public safety experts to design and simulate next-generation AR user interfaces in VR will be described, along with my current effort to integrate AR interface modules for public safety operations.

In addition, I will discuss the remarkable impact that XR can have on healthcare. As a proof of concept tool, I will showcase SURVIVRS, an immersive surgery guidance application that permits remote experts to oversee procedures in remote and inaccessible areas. I will outline my long-term plan for enhancing healthcare equity and accessibility by integrating high-quality XR technology with advancements in networking and artificial intelligence (AI) to transform healthcare delivery.

Biography:

Regis Kopper is currently an Assistant Professor of Computer Science at the University of North Carolina at Greensboro (UNCG).  He holds a BS and MS in Computer Science from PUCRS  - Brazil.  His PhD in Computer and Information Sciences and Support Services was obtained at Virginia Tech.  He is currently exploring the interaction between XR and machine learning to achieve more equitable and accessible healthcare.