Virtual reality lab opens to improve UK transport network

Transport Systems Catapult (TSC) has announced the opening of its ‘Visualisation laboratory’ designed improve the UK transport network.

Transport Systems Catapult, overseen by government agency Innovate UK, opened the laboratory to allow designers and engineers to use cutting edge virtual reality to create transport networks for the future.

The laboratory includes the UK’s first commercially available omnidirectional treadmill that enables users to physically walk through virtual towns and cities. Using this technology, engineers and designers will be able to test the impact of new transport services and technological innovations without the risks and costs of physical implementation.

The technology will explore how pedestrians react to new building designs, public spaces and shared walkways. In addition, designers will be able to experience their designs with crowds of people moving and interacting before committing to physical development.

Graham Fletcher, Modelling and Visualisation Director at TSC, said: “We see huge potential for virtual reality technology to help solve the UK’s transport problems at a lower cost and without the associated risks of testing new technology in a live environment. The Omnideck Treadmill and virtual reality equipment we have installed here at the TSC is totally unique in the UK and will allow businesses to experiment, develop and demonstrate new technologies in a new and inspirational way.”