Project Team
Students
Nicolas Boyer
Energy Engineering
Penn State Greater Allegheny, Penn State University Park
Faculty Mentors
Ashish Kumar
Penn State University Park
Energy and Mineral Engineering (EME)
Project
https://sites.psu.edu/mcreu/files/formidable/2/2023-07-25/summer-2023-powerpoint-revised-1.pdf
Project Video
Project Abstract
Existing 2D methods for underground tunnel mapping are insufficient and pose risks
to miner safety. This work aims to combat this by proposing a 3D method using virtual
reality. A 360 camera was used to scan a tunnel located in Western Pennsylvania. The
scans were then uploaded to a gaming software known as Unity 3D. Several codes were
formulated inside of Unity using C# (C sharp) to assist in producing a 3D-generated
model of the mine. As a result, the user was able to navigate through the tunnels with
the VR headset on allowing for complete immersion. Some advantages presented by a
VR model is the ability to train in a safe office setting. Furthermore, models such as
the one produced in this paper may help reduce accidents by allowing miners to have an
improved understanding of the underground terrain before traversing the physical mine.
Evaluate this Project
Use this form link to provide feedback to the presenters, and add your project evaluation for award(s) consideration.