Disruptive technologies like Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR) have taken technological advancement to a new level today. By definition, Augmented Reality is ‘an interactive experience of a real-world environment where the objects that reside in the real world are enhanced by computer-generated perceptual information, sometimes across multiple sensory modalities’. Virtual reality refers to ‘the computer-generated simulation of a three-dimensional image or environment that can be interacted within a seemingly real or physical way by a person using special electronic equipment, such as a helmet with a screen inside or gloves fitted with sensors’.
These technologies have revolutionized the functioning of industries right from healthcare to education, including entertainment, e-commerce and even to architecture. AR has become an effective tool for designers in communicating the objectives and ideas behind the project through a modern and futuristic approach. They possess immense potential for advancement in architecture by offering the capability to visualize projects through the application of 3D modelling. VR also allows the client to experience the project through a virtual model to understand the proposed space and features.
Fundamental differences
The distinction between VR and AR boils down to the devices they require and the overall experience itself.
- When explained in layman terms, while VR is entirely “virtual”, AR operates in a real-world setting.
- VR users are controlled by the system, while AR users can manage their presence in the real world.
- VR requires a headset, whereas AR can be accessed from a smartphone.
- While VR only enhances a fictional reality, AR enhances both the virtual and real worlds.
To elucidate with examples, in times of the pandemic, several travel agencies have innovated to offer their potential customers a “tour” of the proposed vacation by engaging them in a Virtual Reality of their holiday location. Simultaneously, The National Museum of Finland and The National Museum of Singapore have employed Augmented Reality to provide visitors with a more informed tour of the historic spaces.
Pre-requisites for a career asa VR/AR engineer
A career as a VR or AR engineer requires a plethora of skills. While proficiency in coding and user-interface engineering like UX/UI is compulsory, let us enumerate the other basic requirements for excelling in this profession:
- Mastering Programming Languages: Expertise in programming languages such as C#, C++,and JavaScript are an absolute must.
- Defining the platform: Understanding the fundamental differences between VR and AR, forming a decision on whether to work on mobile apps, web apps, desktop apps, and finally deciding the framework/game engine/SDK are crucial points to ponder on while considering a career in this domain.
- Formal education in VR/AR: Pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in VR/AR engineering is the best way to learn about the fundamentals of these new-age subjects.
- Developing a portfolio: Developing an independent project is a great idea to get recruited in this industry. Volunteering for open source projects to gain more experience in the area is a tried-and-tested strategy for VR/AR engineers.
- Interacting with experts: In such a niche area of work, VR/AR engineers can gain relevant experience by interacting and learning from the experts in the domain.
We offer job-oriented engineering courses
The OmDayal Group of Institutions (NAAC-accredited and MAKAUT-affiliated) is responsible for churning out skilled engineers with a zeal for creativity and innovation. As one of the leading engineering colleges in West Bengal, the industry-centric engineering courses offered by us include:
- Civil Engineering
- Electrical Engineering
- Mechanical Engineering
- Computer Science and Engineering
We empower each and every student with the competitive edge and required skills to perform confidently in this world dominated by modern technology. Our industry-oriented facilities include flexible timings and partnerships with National Small Industries Corporation (NSIC) for on-job training and placement opportunities.
For more information, visit www.omdayal.com
