Ava Geisler
Research Mentor: Kimberlee Kearfott
Mentor Department: NERS, Engineering
Author(s): Ava Geisler, Jack Drougel, Brooklynn Harris, Andy Tang, Estefania Munoz Barron, Kimberlee Kearfott
Session: Session 1 (9:00 AM – 9:50 AM)
Presentation Type: Poster 117
Abstract
Virtual Reality (VR) is an increasingly popular tool for hands-on, immersive learning and outreach that can make learning difficult concepts more engaging and comprehensible. Previously, the Radiological Health Engineering (RHE) Laboratory has developed a VR environment, “DoseBusters,†which simulates realistic radiation experiments and incorporates principles of source surveying and shielding. To expand upon DoseBuster’s previous work, “Tiny Tours†was created to model radiation interactions, such as the photoelectric effect and Compton scattering, in the context of health physics. Unity Game Engine, Visual Studio 2022 (C#), and Blender were used to create radiation simulations for Compton scattering and the photoelectric effect. Both models are based on understood theoretical equations to make the simulation as accurate as possible within the bounds of the game engine. Furthermore, to make the game more interactive and immersive, a mechanism was created that allows the player to switch their perspective throughout the game, from the size of a person to that of an atom. In the final product, the player can experience radiation interactions up close, then shift their perspective to see the same process in the larger context of a medical scenario. Further efforts in the project include integrating simulation components and measuring user experience. By putting a difficult concept, such as these radiation interactions, in the context of a more tangible scenario, we hope to increase retention, engagement, and excitement for radiation health physics among users of the game.
