Title: Senior Game Developer
Languages: C#, C++
Tools: Unity 3D, Android Studio
Platforms: Windows, Android
Key Concepts: Gameplay programming, Conversation AI
Embedded Systems programming, Bluetooth communication. Multiplayer VR / Tablet communication.
UI/UX design and implementation
The Taser VR Training project was designed to supplement law enforcement training by allowing them to experience training simulations in a VR environment.
A key feature was the physical taser training module. We designed a taser ‘magazine’ that could be slotted into an existing taser device to enable it to communicate with our VR headset. Thus, officers could train with the same weapons that they would have in real situations.
There were two main simulations within this program. The first was a simple target range, allowing the officer to get used to firing the taser in a training environment. The second was a training scenario focused around the officer attending a domestic abuse call.
For the training scenario, a number of complex technologies came into play. The user controlled the flow of the simulation using their voice. They were presented with a series of options, and speech-to-text systems would parse their voice allowing them to select an option.
This approach was designed to be intuitive to the user, and prevent any confusion learning buttons on a VR controller for the first time. Especially since our aim was for their only ‘controller’ to be their taser.
The scenario itself had a full narrative flow system allowing the officer to make choices with real consequences. There was another simulated officer within the scenario, which also tested the users ability to respond to situations not within their full control.
Finally, the VR software was accompanied by an Android tablet app. Training scenarios were ‘multiplayer’. The VR headset acted as the ‘host’, and would communicate the scenario and its current state to the server. The tablet could connect to the session in order to view the situation as it unfolded. This was designed to be held by a training officer or assessor.
The user with the tablet had a level of control over the scenario, allowing for further customisation of testing by a training body. After a scenario was complete the simulation would score the actions of the officer and present them in a session overview to the training officer.
Peter Carey 