Application of computer vision and machine learning for spatially accurate object representation in AR/VR

The Centre for Competitive Creative Design at Cranfield University in partnership with OrangeLV have come together to offer an exciting PhD focusing on the development of a novel proof of concept AR/VR solution. The PhD will apply CV and ML to a narrow scenario inspired by the challenges revealed during development of various products by OrangeLV. The PhD will become efficient in working with AR/VR through the help of assistance by OrangeLV and a well-stocked lab.

AR and VR are areas of exponential growth yet builds upon the foundation of CV and ML. This research opportunity will allow combining existing understanding of CV and ML with gained insights in AR/VR and access to cutting-edge hardware and software into the development of focused software for education, commerce or entertainment.

We are looking for a stellar candidate with skills in CV and ML and aptitude to pick up AR/VR and collaborate with other multidisciplinary software developers, 3D artists, designers and researchers in prototyping and building proof of concept AR/VR software products.

The student will also gain the opportunity to acquire or enhance transferable skills:
- Expertise in Computer Vision and Machine Learning applied to AR/VR
- Experience writing code for various platforms
- Experience designing for multi-threaded architectures
- Experience in profiling, debugging and testing complex systems
- Experience working with 3D content
- Insights into Material and Physics Simulation
- Capacity to collaborate with content artists and designers
- Knowledge of cloud services and web API usage
- Writing Skills (Reports/Applications/Documents)

This is PhD is part of a wider research project focusing on the development of a novel proof of concept Augmented Reality (AR)/ Virtual Reality (VR) solution.

International travel may be expected throughout the project duration.

Entry requirements

Applicants should have a first or second class UK honours degree (or extensive industrial experience in a related discipline). This project would suit candidates with UX design, Augmented Reality, Digital Technology, Computer Science, Graphics, Machine Learning skills.

How to apply
Further information:
Leon Williams, E: [Email Address Removed], T: (0) 1234 750111 Ext: 8531
If you are eligible to apply, please complete the online application form
Further information:

This PhD will focus on the development of object and headset positional tracking in space and camera-based monitoring of bodily movements (e.g. object silhouettes in motion).

Sponsor Information/Background:
The Centre for Competitive Creative Design (C4D) at Cranfield is the internationally recognised and award-winning centre of excellence for creative design and innovation. We have breakthrough innovation facilities and highly experienced staff.
OrangeLV is a solution-driven global innovation partner and subject matter expert in visualization, animation, slow-motion capture and VFX content production, film production, platform and application design for AR/VR/WMR/Mobile with software solutions, content creation and asset management expertise for clients and institutions worldwide.

The PhD research student will be a key player in research, design and collaboration on VR/AR experience platforms that integrates with other services and applications. You will participate in designing and be a lead in the implementation of the platform and will be responsible for tracking/localization and mapping/camera pose estimation/SLAM and anything related to the location, positioning, and mapping of the real-world environment necessary to deliver rich VR/AR experiences on mobile and hardware devices. International travel may be expected throughout the project duration.

The student will gain the opportunity and experience and transferable skills to enhance their skills related to enhance their:

Machine Learning expertise as applied to localization and mapping
Advanced algorithm design for localization and mapping using traditional (i.e. feature based) - techniques
Experience writing cross platform code
Experience designing for multi-threaded architectures
Experience in profiling, debugging and testing complex systems
Implementation of geospatial data infrastructure
Experience with spatial databases (such as PostGIS)
Knowledge of cloud services and web API design
Material and Physics Simulation
Writing Skills (Reports/Applications/Documents)

This is Phd is part of a wider research project focusing on the development of a novel proof of concept Augmented Reality (AR)/ Virtual Reality (VR) solution. See Cranfield website for further details.

Entry requirements
Applicants should have a first or second class UK honours degree (or extensive industrial experience in a related discipline). This project would suit candidates with UX design, Augmented Reality, Digital Technology, Computer Science, Graphics, Machine Learning skills.

How to apply
For further information:
Leon Williams, E: [Email Address Removed], T: (0) 1234 750111 Ext: 8531
If you are eligible to apply for this research studentship, please complete the online application form

For further information on application:
Admissions
T: +44 (0)1234 758082
E: [Email Address Removed]