Udacity-Google VR Nanodegree
I have completed the Udacity-Google Virtual Reality software developer Nanodegree. The following depicts a sampling of results ranging from beginner to more technically sophisticated projects. Aside: I am also co-inventor on at least 4 pending US patents related to VR systems and apps, and I have written about VR privacy and underpinnings in the peer-reviewed IEEE magazine called Technology and Society.
Projects
Hello (VR) World!
Customized and deployed a simple mobile VR app to an iPhone and Android device using the Google Cardboard Software Development Kit (SDK).
Development difficulty level: BeginnerInteractive Apartment
Immersed the user inside a modern apartment, complete with high-performance lighting, custom materials, and rigged with animation using Unity 3D.
Development difficulty level: BeginnerVR Maze Game
Built a 3D maze app using Google Cardboard SDK and Unity 3D in which the user explores a maze, finds surprises and treasures, and tries to unlock a secret door. Demonstrated working knowledge of 2D and 3D user interfaces, waypoint based navigation, procedural animation, interactive objects, spatial audio, particle effects and persistent storage of session data.
Development difficulty level: IntermediateImmersive Simon-Says-like Puzzler
Created and implemented a “Simon-says” mobile VR application that asks users to solve a puzzle to escape a dungeon. Particular attention was paid to atmospheric effects and to user experience. Gathered usability data from several real users and refined the app accordingly.
Development difficulty level: IntermediateInteractive 360-degree Video "Choose your own travel adventure"
Employed a variety of tools for editing and stitching 360 degree videos to create a series of interesting travel videos (some from archival footage). Used Unity’s Video Player API to add video controls to the app. The resulting app allowed users to navigate a series of 360 experiences in various countries in the order that they wish, culminating in a final au-revoir video. Employed special effects such as particles and immersion to make the app both user-friendly and compelling.
Development difficulty level: Beginner to intermediateVR Information Kiosk App
Designed and implemented an experimental virtual reality kiosk; a 3D landscape in which the viewer immerses herself, navigates, and learns about VR apps in the realm of sports. This design exploits the use of graphics, 3D user interface, 3D props, and multimedia, to create a visual and informative UX.
Development difficulty level: IntermediateVirtual "Crowded Room" / Claustrophobia Simulator
Designed and built a VR experience that immerses the viewer in cramped and cluttered rooms, challenging them not to feel claustrophobic while they attempt to navigate to the exit in a short time. This app showcases several important Unity3D techniques including: baked lighting, spatial audio, animation, physics, locomotion, narrative UI, and gamification.
Development difficulty level: Intermediate to advanced
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