Pollution VR Data Visualization and Storytelling UX

By: Melvin He (Spring 2023) [was initially used as primer for first in-class VR activity of the semester]

Introduction:

In this activity, we will be delving into the world of VR and its applications in environmental storytelling, specifically pollution data storytelling. We will be comparing and contrasting webVR, videoVR, and pre-existing software for exploring data visualizations.

By the end of this activity, you will have a better understanding of how these different technologies can be used to create immersive and engaging VR data visualizations.

Pre-Installation (10 min)

1. Have VR web browser immediately accessible in class. (install Firefox, Chrome, or Meta Quest 2 VR and make sure it is working on your VR device).

2. Charge your VR devices.

3. Please read the following 2 sections below before class. Skim over! Don’t actually implement any data visualizations (unless you want to 😉)

Why visualize Pollution & Environment data in VR?

• The 3D nature of VR allows users to experience the data in a more intuitive way, and offers a greater sense of spatial awareness and scale.

• VR technology can also provide a more holistic understanding of the data, as it allows users to view the data from different angles and perspectives, giving a more comprehensive view of the environmental impact.

• VR can simulate scenarios that might be difficult or impossible to replicate in the real world, providing insights that would not have been possible through traditional data visualization methods.

• Visualizing pollution and environmental data in VR can also raise awareness and foster a sense of responsibility towards the environment, inspiring collective action towards a sustainable future.

Technologies we will explore:

WebVR

WebVR is a technology that allows VR experiences to be accessed through a web browser, eliminating the need for a standalone VR app. We will explore how webVR can be used to create data visualizations that are accessible and easy to share with others.

To create WebVR, you may need to follow these steps:

1. Choose a WebVR framework or library: There are many frameworks and libraries available that can help you create WebVR. Some of the popular ones include A-Frame, Three.js, and Babylon.js. Choose the one that best fits your needs and skill level.

2. Set up your development environment: You will need a code editor and a local server to develop your WebVR project. You can use tools like Visual Studio Code or Sublime Text as your code editor and set up a local server using Node.js or Apache.

3. Create your WebVR scene: Once your development environment is set up, you can start creating your WebVR scene. This includes adding 3D models, animations, and interactions to your scene using the WebVR framework or library that you have chosen.

4. Test your WebVR scene: You can test your WebVR scene using a desktop browser with WebVR support or by using a VR headset. To test your WebVR scene on a desktop browser, you will need to install the WebVR extension for your browser. To test it on a VR headset, you will need to connect your headset to your computer and use a WebVR-enabled browser like Firefox or Chrome.

5. Publish your WebVR scene: Once you are satisfied with your WebVR scene, you can publish it online so that others can view it. You can host your WebVR scene on a web server or use platforms like Glitch or GitHub Pages to host it for free.

VideoVR

VideoVR, on the other hand, is a technology that allows for 360-degree videos to be viewed in VR. We will explore how videoVR can be used to create immersive storytelling experiences that incorporate data visualizations.

To create VideoVR on YouTube, you may need a 360-degree camera to capture the video footage. Once you have captured the video, you can follow these steps to upload it to YouTube as a VideoVR:

1. Log in to your YouTube account and click on the “Create a video or post” button on the top right corner of the screen.

2. Click on the “Upload video” option from the dropdown menu.

3. Drag and drop your 360-degree video file into the upload window or click on the “Select files” button to choose the file from your computer.

4. Once the video has finished uploading, select the “360-degree video” option under the “Advanced settings” tab on the upload page.

5. Next, add any relevant details such as the video title, description, and thumbnail image.

6. Finally, click on the “Publish” button to make the VideoVR live on YouTube.

VR Software

VR Software (including Unity, Nanome, Flow Immersive, Blender, and Sketchup) allows us to create interactive and customizable visualizations that can be used in VR.

To use pre-existing VR software for data visualization, you can follow these steps:

1. Choose a VR software: Choose a VR software that fits your data visualization needs. There are many VR software applications available, some of which are specifically designed for data visualization. Some popular VR software applications for data visualization include Tableau, Qlik, and DataCamp.

2. Prepare your data: Before you can use the VR software for data visualization, you will need to prepare your data. This may involve cleaning and transforming the data into a format that is compatible with the software using applications such as Postman API.

3. Import your data: Once your data is prepared, you can import it into the VR software. The process of importing data varies depending on the software, but most VR software applications have a built-in tool for importing data.

4. Choose a visualization method: Once your data is imported, you can choose a visualization method that best fits your needs. This may involve selecting a chart type, data visualization technique, or 3D model.

5. Customize your visualization: You can customize your data visualization by adjusting parameters like colors, scale, and labels. You can also add interactive elements like animations and interactions to make your visualization more engaging.

6. Test and refine: Once your data visualization is complete, you can test it in the VR environment to make sure it is working as expected. You may need to refine your visualization based on user feedback or data insights.

Brown CSCI 1951T In-Class Activity: Exploring Air Pollution Visualizations and Storytelling UX