FSC Wins $10K SUNY Grant for “Reality” Program
July 23, 2018
Dr. Jeff Hung
Dr. Jeff Hung, co-chair and associate professor, and Daniel Weinman, instructional support technician, in the Department of Mechanical Engineering Technology, have won a $10K SUNY IITG grant for their demonstration models on virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR).
VR is defined as “an artificial environment which is experienced through sensory stimuli (such as sights and sounds) provided by a computer, and in which one’s actions partially determine what happens in the environment.” AR is “an enhanced version of reality created by the use of technology to overlay digital information on an image of something being viewed through a device such as a smartphone.”
“This program will help achieve competency in key skills: technical drawing and 3D modeling, thus ensuring the ability to progress in more advanced courses,” said Dr. Hung. “Teaching technical drawing and 3D modeling are the important first steps in the mechanical and manufacturing engineering technology programs at Farmingdale. Mastering these skills is essential before progressing to other skills.”
Fifty MET students will participate in the pilot program, which could be expanded to include double that number. PTech students may also be involved.
Said Dr. Hung: “AR demonstration models will be available through students’ smartphones, once the appropriate software is identified. Similarly, VR demonstration models will be available through VR goggles for students to practice technical drawing and 3D modeling.
“We want to see which method is more effective in terms of cost and student learning.”
Both Hung and Weinman are graduates of FSC.
