Vikram Kapila, a senior member of the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) and a professor at the Tandon School of Engineering at New York University, recently sat down for an interview with IEEE Transmitter, a technology-focused publication. In the conversation, he shared his insights on the growing impact of Mixed Reality (MR), Augmented Reality (AR), and Virtual Reality (VR) on society—both now and in the future. He emphasized that these technologies will not only enhance our daily lives but also revolutionize how we learn, work, and interact with the world around us.
The following is a detailed summary of the interview:
IEEE Transmitter: What is your primary research focus within the realm of MR, AR, and VR?
Kapila: My research centers on leveraging image-based technologies to create more natural and intuitive human-computer interactions. I integrate MR/AR/VR with fields like mechatronics, robotics, computer vision, and control engineering to develop innovative applications across multiple domains. These include educational tools for engineering labs, intuitive human-robot interfaces, and assistive solutions for people with disabilities, the elderly, and stroke patients.
IEEE Transmitter: Why are MR/AR/VR technologies important, and how do they benefit society today and in the future?
Kapila: These technologies are transformative because they create immersive environments that boost user engagement and participation. They allow users to interact with real-world objects in new ways, making learning and training more effective. Additionally, their accessibility via common mobile devices makes them widely usable.
For example, in education, MR/AR/VR can adapt to different learning styles and bridge the gap between traditional and online lab experiences. In human-robot interaction, they enable intuitive control without extensive training. In rehabilitation, they help maintain patient motivation through goal-oriented activities. In industries like manufacturing and construction, they offer powerful tools for design, assembly, and maintenance.
In the coming years, MR/AR/VR will likely merge with robotics, computer vision, machine learning, and 3D printing, influencing sectors such as education, healthcare, retail, and remote exploration.
IEEE Transmitter: How do you specifically apply MR/AR/VR, and what makes your work unique?
Kapila: Our approach uses consumer-grade devices to deliver MR/AR/VR experiences, reducing dependency on expensive lab equipment. This allows for flexible, portable solutions that can be deployed in real-world settings, not just controlled environments.
IEEE Transmitter: How can MR/AR/VR support researchers in fields like medicine, space, and archaeology?
Kapila: These technologies open up new possibilities for global collaboration. Researchers can combine MR/AR/VR with tools like computer vision and 3D printing to explore complex problems. Open-source platforms similar to Arduino or ROS make it easier for interdisciplinary teams to experiment and innovate.
Applications range from virtual anatomy lessons and remote space exploration to architectural visualization and industrial maintenance. The potential is vast and spans many disciplines.
IEEE Transmitter: What do you foresee for the future of MR/AR/VR over the next five to ten years?
Kapila: I believe MR/AR/VR will become deeply integrated with other cutting-edge technologies. In education, this could mean replacing static textbooks with immersive, hands-on learning environments. Students who can't travel physically may still experience virtual field trips. In the workplace, technicians can receive real-time guidance through augmented instructions.
With companies like Amazon and Lowe’s already exploring MR/AR applications, the retail sector is set for a major transformation. Over the next decade, these technologies will foster more collaborative and engaging experiences in design, teaching, gaming, and beyond.
IEEE Transmitter: Is there anything else you think is crucial about the future of AR/VR?
Kapila: It's an exciting time to witness the fusion of these technologies. They have the power to reshape everyday life, from how we learn and work to how we relax and connect with others. The possibilities are truly limitless.
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