Games Technology Network (GTN)

The topic of games is an integral part of the strategic research orientation at H-BRS. With the establishment of the Institute for Visual Computing, the university has made a commitment to the ongoing support and promotion of visual computing. Visual computing technologies (such as computer graphics, interaction, computer vision) form the foundation of many games and gaming platforms. Simultaneously, Visual Computing is one of the university-wide research focal points at H-BRS, and its support is enshrined in the current university development plan.

One of the key focal points of the IVC is the translation of research outcomes into practical applications through close collaboration with regional and national industries. This process has been notably bolstered by the establishment of the "Visualization Showroom," a demonstration laboratory for innovative interactive visualization systems. The IVC is a member of game - the German Games Industry Association.

The Computer Graphics Group at TH Köln boasts several years of research activity in the fields of material acquisition, realistic and color-accurate real-time rendering, virtual and augmented reality, as well as clothing simulation (e.g., in funded projects such as SkEtch3D, ParSim 3D, Spindle 3D, and commissioned research for companies). In the recently successfully concluded BMBF project Retail 4.0, a system for collaborative clothing visualization in VR was developed. Currently, the CGG is working on a project supported by the Ministry of Culture and Science (MKW) in cooperation with HAW, which is exploring a collaborative VR training system for emergency responders and disaster preparedness (KoViTrek). A central aspect of such systems is the realistic representation of virtual environments, including a credible reproduction of the material properties of all surfaces. The CGG has been continuously developing solutions for the capture and reproduction of real surfaces and their reflection properties for years (e.g., in funded projects like Realtex and REALMAT).

The Cologne Game Lab (CGL) at TH Köln is a key player at the intersection of research and knowledge transfer in the gaming industry. Apart from providing academic education for future professionals in areas such as Game Design, Game Art, Game Informatics, and Game Studies, the CGL promotes a sustainable exchange between research and the industry. Events like Clash of Realities or the Global Game Jam are regularly organized to bring together different interest groups. The CGL is also actively engaged in gamification, training, and applied games research, and has participated in various international projects (such as the Antura Initiative, The Migrants’ Chronicle).

The GTN receives active support from the research group https://irex.team, which aims to develop interactive systems for innovative digital media to create relevant and sophisticated experiences accessible to people. Such systems encompass social and educational interactive experiences that generate cognitive and affective responses by eliciting emotions and inviting reflection on learning arrangements. Learn more about the program here: https://coco.study.

The Mixed Reality and Visualization research group led by Prof. Dr. Christian Geiger is one of the most prominent third-party funded entities at Hochschule Düsseldorf. This interdisciplinary team is dedicated to advancing methods and technologies for user-centered interaction between humans and technology. One of their focal points is motion-intensive interfaces that engage the entire body (e.g., based on body, facial, and eye tracking, as well as biosensors), as well as the comprehensive development of empathic systems (Empathic Computing). The overarching objective is always to design, implement, and validate the best possible user experience.

A particular emphasis of their application of Mixed Reality technologies lies in the realm of Entertainment Computing (including games, moving images/film, art, and culture) and digital health. For several years, the team has been increasingly leveraging knowledge-based methods and AI technologies.

Their goal is to create a holistic user experience that integrates technology seamlessly into human interaction and behavior, enhancing both creativity and practicality. Through their research and application, they contribute significantly to the ever-evolving landscape of Mixed Reality and its diverse applications.