Virtual Campus

The Virtual Campus project explores how augmented reality (AR), and virtual reality (VR) technologies can be used at the University of Cologne to enhance education, teaching, and daily campus life. As part of this effort, the project is developing 3D building models and several AR and VR applications.

We are developing a mobile AR app to assist with navigation on campus. It will provide a first-person navigation experience through AR overlays in both outdoor and indoor spaces. Additionally, the app will display location-based information about services and resources available. This app will complement the university’s new campus map (CampusGIS2).

The created 3D building models, which also include interiors, serve as the basis for locating mobile devices indoors, enabling navigation in these areas as well. Research and development work is being conducted within the project to enhance indoor localization. At the same time, the project is gradually adding new 3D building models to the 3D view of the new campus map, allowing the campus to take shape as a virtual model.

Part of the applications will initially focus on the University and City Library (UCL). An AR tour through the UCL guides users to key locations in the building and illustrates, for example, how to use the book return machines. In the realm of VR, a virtual 360° tour of the ULC allows users to explore the building and its important areas from home, helping them prepare for a visit. Both tours will provide explanations and location-based information.

The CAVE at the IT Center allows multiple users to enter and interact with a virtual model. We simplify this by making it possible to directly access 3D models from the existing Kompakkt database within the CAVE. This enhancement promotes the use of VR in research and teaching.

All outputs of the project are examples that demonstrate their practicality within the university. Detailed documentation will allow for the expansion of the developed methods or their adaptation to other areas after the project concludes.

Courses are offered to teach students about the project's content and methods, allowing them to share valuable insights and ideas in return.