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University of Porto, Portugal

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12 Papers

Generative Narrative-Driven Game Mechanics for Procedural Driving Simulators

Topics: Human Figure Animation; Crowd Simulation; Simulation for Education and Training; Dynamic Simulation of Physical Behaviour

Authors: Nelson Rodrigues ^{1

;

2} , António Coelho ^{2

;

1} and Rosaldo Rossetti ^{1

;

3}

Affiliations: ¹ Faculty of Engineering, University of Porto, Rua Dr. Roberto Frias s/n, 4200-465, Porto, Portugal , ² INESC TEC, Rua Dr. Roberto Frias s/n, 4200-465, Porto, Portugal , ³ LIACC - Artificial Intelligence and Computer Science Lab, Rua Dr. Roberto Frias s/n, 4200-465, Porto, Portugal

Digital Object Identifier: 10.5220/0013311000003912

Proceedings of GRAPP 2025, ISBN: 978-989-758-728-3

Quick Abstract

Driving simulators are essential tools for training, education, research, and scientific experimentation. However, the diversity and quality of virtual environments in simulations is limited by the specialized human resources availability for authoring the content, leading to repetitive scenarios and low complexity of real-world scenes. This work introduces a pipeline that can process text-based narratives outlining driving experiments to procedurally generate dynamic traffic simulation scenarios. The solution uses Retrieval-Augmented Generation alongside local open-source Large Language Models to analyse unstructured textual information and produce a knowledge graph that encapsulates the world scene described in the experiment. Additionally, a context-based formal grammar is generated through inverse procedural modelling, reflecting the game mechanics related to the interactions among the world entities in the virtual environment supported by CARLA driving simulator. The proposed pipeline aims to simplify the generation of virtual environments for traffic simulation based on descriptions from scientific experiment, even for users without expertise in computer graphics.

Integration of CAD Models into Game Engines

Topics: Modeling and Algorithms; Geometric Computing; CAGD/CAD/CAM Systems

Authors: Bruno Santos ¹ , Nelson Rodrigues ^{2

;

1} , Pedro Costa ² and António Coelho ^{1

;

3}

Affiliations: ¹ Faculdade de Engenharia da Universidade do Porto, Rua Dr. Roberto Frias s/n,4200-465 Porto, Portugal , ² Abyssal, S.A, Porto, Portugal , ³ INESC TEC, Rua Dr. Roberto Frias s/n, 4200-465 Porto, Portugal

Digital Object Identifier: 10.5220/0010201701530160

Proceedings of GRAPP 2021/VISIGRAPP, ISBN: 978-989-758-488-6

Quick Abstract

Computer-aided design (CAD) and 3D modeling are similar, but they have different functionalities and applications. CAD is a fundamental tool to create object models, design parts, and create 2D schematics from 3D designed objects that can later be used in manufacturing. Meanwhile, 3D modeling is mostly used in entertainment, to create meshes for animation and games. When there is the necessity of using real-life object models in game engines, a conversion process is required to go from CAD to 3D meshes. Converting from the continuous domain of CAD to the discrete domain of 3D models represents a trade-off between processing cost and visual accuracy, in order to obtain the best user experience. This work explores different methods for the creation of meshes and the reduction of the number of polygons used to represent them. Based on these concepts, an interactive application was created to allow the users to control how the model looks in the game engine, in a simple way, while also optimizing and simplifying the mapping of textures for the generated meshes. This application (CADto3D) generates accurate 3D models based on CAD surfaces while giving the user more control over the final result than other current solutions.

An Interactive Application Framework for Natural Parks using Serious Location-based Games with Augmented Reality

Topics: Augmented, Mixed and Virtual Environments; Mobile Interfaces; Games for Education and Training

Authors: Liliana Santos ¹ , Nuno Silva ¹ , Rui Nóbrega ^{2

;

3} , Rubim Almeida ⁴ and António Coelho ^{1

;

2}

Affiliations: ¹ Faculty of Engineering, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal , ² INESC TEC - The Institute for Systems and Computer Engineering, Technology and Science, Porto, Portugal , ³ NOVA-LINCS, DI, Faculdade de Ciências e Tecnologia, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Caparica, Portugal , ⁴ Faculty of Science, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal

Digital Object Identifier: 10.5220/0008947602470254

Proceedings of GRAPP 2020/VISIGRAPP, ISBN: 978-989-758-402-2

Quick Abstract

Park visitors and tourists, in general, seek new experiences, leading to a growing search for ways to create more memorable experiences. Some technological solutions, such as Augmented Reality, have proved that they can be useful to create more immersive and interactive experiences, both in entertainment and education. An application with Augmented Reality, using location-based services in a gamified way, can create pleasant and entertaining outdoor experiences without losing its pedagogical ability, making it a promising fit for a nature park. We propose a conceptual framework for creating these mobile applications for nature parks. From which, a mobile application was prototyped with location-based services and augmented reality interactive experiences, with the purpose of disseminating scientific knowledge about the fauna and flora of a nature park. Gaming elements are also introduced in the application’s design to try and improve the engagement and involvement in the various activities of the application and its contents. User tests were performed during the development of the prototype and with the final version. The results allow us to conclude that this type of applications can improve the visitors’ experience while at the same time, improve the dissemination of scientific knowledge.

Integrated Modeling of Road Environments for Driving Simulation

Topics: Augmented, Mixed and Virtual Environments; Modeling and Algorithms

Authors: Carlos Campos ¹ , João Miguel Leitão ² and António Fernando Coelho ³

Affiliations: ¹ School of Engineering of Porto Polytechnic and Engineering Faculty of Porto University, Portugal , ² School of Engineering of Porto Polytechnic, Portugal , ³ Engineering Faculty of Porto University, Portugal

Digital Object Identifier: 10.5220/0005308600700080

Proceedings of GRAPP 2015/VISIGRAPP, ISBN: 978-989-758-087-1

Quick Abstract

Virtual environments for driving simulations aimed to scientific purposes require three-dimensional road models that must obey to detailed standards of specification and realism. The creation of road models with this level of quality requires previous definition of the road networks and the road paths. Each road path is usually obtained through the dedicated work of roadway design specialists, resulting in a long time consuming process. The driving simulation for scientific purposes also requires a semantic description of all elements within the environment in order to provide the parameterization of actors during the simulation and the production of simulation reports. This paper presents a methodology to automatically generate road environments suitable to the implementation of driving simulation experiences. This methodology integrates every required step for modelling road environments, from the determination of interchanges nodes to the generation of the geometric and the semantic models. The human supervisor can interact with the model generation process at any stage, in order to meet every specific requirement of the experimental work. The proposed methodology reduces workload involved in the initial specification of the road network and significantly reduces the use of specialists for preparing the road paths of all roadways. The generated semantic description allows procedural placing of actors in the simulated environment. The models are suitable for conducting scientific work in a driving simulator.

Related Ontology Subjects/Areas/Topics (5)

Augmented, Mixed and Virtual Environments		Geometry and Modeling		Modeling and Algorithms
Computer Vision, Visualization and Computer Graphics		Interactive Environments

NARI: Natural Augmented Reality Interface - Interaction Challenges for AR Applications

Topics: Augmented, Mixed and Virtual Environments; Mobile Interfaces; Graphical Interfaces; Interactive 3D Graphics for Mobile Devices Like Smartphones, PDAs and UMPCs

Authors: Rui Nóbrega ¹ , Diogo Cabral ² , Giulio Jacucci ³ and António Coelho ¹

Affiliations: ¹ Faculdade de Engenharia, Universidade do Porto and INESC TEC, Portugal , ² University of Helsinki, Finland , ³ University of Helsinki and Aalto University, Finland

Digital Object Identifier: 10.5220/0005360305040510

Proceedings of GRAPP 2015/VISIGRAPP, ISBN: 978-989-758-087-1

Quick Abstract

Following the proliferation of Augmented Reality technologies and applications in mobile devices it is becoming clear that AR techniques have matured and are ready to be used for large audiences. This poses several new multimedia interaction and usability problems that need to be identified and studied. AR problems are no longer exclusively about rendering superimposed virtual geometry or finding ways of performing GPS or computer vision registration. It is important to understand how to keep users engaged with AR and in what occasions it is suitable to use it. Additionally how should graphical user interfaces be designed so that the user can interact with AR elements while pointing a mobile device to a specific real world area? Finally what is limiting AR applications from reaching an even broader acceptance and usage level? This position paper identifies several interaction problems in today’s multimedia AR applications, raising several pressing issues and proposes several research directions.

Related Ontology Subjects/Areas/Topics (6)

Augmented, Mixed and Virtual Environments		Graphical Interfaces		Interactive Environments
Computer Vision, Visualization and Computer Graphics		Interactive 3D Graphics for Mobile Devices Like Smartphones, PDAs and UMPCs		Mobile Interfaces

An Agent-based Framework for Intelligent Optimization of Interactive Visualizations

Topics: Multi-Agent Systems; State Space Search; Agent Models and Architectures; Agent Platforms and Interoperability

Authors: Pedro Miguel Moreira ¹ , Luis Paulo Reis ² and A. Augusto Sousa ³

Affiliations: ¹ Polytechnic Institute of Viana do Castelo and Univ. of Porto, Portugal , ² Univ. of Porto and University of Minho, Portugal , ³ Univ. of Porto, Portugal

Digital Object Identifier: 10.5220/0004185301540159

Proceedings of ICAART 2013, ISBN: 978-989-8565-38-9

Quick Abstract

Interactive visualization of virtual environments is an active research topic. There is a multiplicity of applications such as simulation systems, augmented and mixed reality environments, computer games, amongst others, which endlessly demand for greater levels of realism and interaction. At every stage of the process, including modeling, image synthesis, transmission and navigation, there are identifiable circumstances which may compromise the achievement of high quality solutions for the posed problems. For many of these problems, an effective use of optimization tools can play a major role in order to achieve solutions with better quality. Within this context, an innovative optimization architecture is presented regarding to two major principles. The first principle comprises the possibility to integrate, with reduced effort, the optimization tools with existent applications and systems. Thus, we propose an agent-based framework where the optimization application may operate as an independent process in respect to the visualization application where communication is achieved by means of a specifically developed high-level message based protocol. The second principle establishes on the utilization of a class of intelligent optimization methods, known as metaheuristics, which major distinguishing quality is their great level of problem-independence, thus, enabling a wider application. The paper describes conducted experiments and presents results that demonstrate the utility and efficacy of the proposed framework.

Related Ontology Subjects/Areas/Topics (13)

Agent Models and Architectures	Distributed and Mobile Software Systems	Multi-Agent Systems
Agent Platforms and Interoperability	Enterprise Information Systems	Software Engineering
Agents	Knowledge Engineering and Ontology Development	State Space Search
Artificial Intelligence	Knowledge-Based Systems	Symbolic Systems
Artificial Intelligence and Decision Support Systems

A PROCEDURAL GEOMETRY MODELING API

Topics: Modeling and Algorithms; Scene and Object Modeling; Geometric Computing; CAGD/CAD/CAM Systems

Authors: Pedro Brandão Silva ¹ , António Coelho ² , Rui Rodrigues ¹ and A. Augusto Sousa ²

Affiliations: ¹ Universidade do Porto, Portugal , ² Universidade do Porto and 3Decide / Palcos da Realidade, Portugal

Digital Object Identifier: 10.5220/0003848101290134

Proceedings of GRAPP 2012/VISIGRAPP, ISBN: 978-989-8565-02-0

Quick Abstract

This paper presents a solution for geometric manipulation in procedural modeling as an Application Programming Interface (API). This approach intends to enable a more powerful control over the geometric entities by performing selections based on their attributes, similar to picking features in graphical interfaces. This is achieved through the definition of a topological structure, which features a set of properties, such as scope, spatial localization and semantic information. The applicable modeling operations allow a more customized control, as well as successive tracking, which induce a greater, faster and more intuitive approach for geometry generation. This approach still constitutes ongoing work, but has already been successfully applied for the generation of large virtual urban environments.

Related Ontology Subjects/Areas/Topics (6)

CAGD/CAD/CAM Systems		Geometric Computing		Modeling and Algorithms
Computer Vision, Visualization and Computer Graphics		Geometry and Modeling		Scene and Object Modeling

AN URBAN ONTOLOGY TO GENERATE COLLABORATIVE VIRTUAL ENVIRONMENTS FOR MUNICIPAL PLANNING AND MANAGEMENT

Topics: Augmented, Mixed and Virtual Environments; Collaborative Augmented, Mixed and Virtual Environments; Integration and Interoperation Between 3D Documents and Web/Multimedia Technologies, Including the Semantic Web

Authors: Tiago Martins ¹ , Pedro Brandão Silva ¹ , António Coelho ² and A. Augusto Sousa ²

Affiliations: ¹ Universidade do Porto, Portugal , ² Universidade do Porto and UPTEC - PINC, Portugal

Digital Object Identifier: 10.5220/0003849705070510

Proceedings of GRAPP 2012/VISIGRAPP, ISBN: 978-989-8565-02-0

Quick Abstract

The municipal planning and management tasks are generally performed based on text documents or through digital maps provided by geographic information systems (GIS). However, most municipal GIS follow different data models, leading to interoperability problems when there is a need to combine data from different sources. Furthermore, most of the time these tasks are performed in a collaborative way between the municipal technicians, emerging some difficulties in decision making due to the three-dimensional nature of urban space. Thus, this paper describes a methodology which can integrate multiple sources of real data from diverse municipal GIS, in a unified data model based on the CityGML specification. This model is mapped onto an urban ontology oriented for procedural modeling, which, in turn, produces the three-dimensional models of the urban environments. The system developed operates in a client-server approach, where the server is responsible for mapping the urban information to the unified data model and the client represents the procedural modeling technology that generates the urban environment in three-dimensional format, allowing users to interact and amplify the existing urban information.

Related Ontology Subjects/Areas/Topics (4)

Augmented, Mixed and Virtual Environments		Integration and Interoperation Between 3D Documents and Web/Multimedia Technologies, Including the Semantic Web		Interactive Environments
Computer Vision, Visualization and Computer Graphics

EVALUATION OF VISUALIZATION FEATURES IN THREE-DIMENSIONAL LOCATION-BASED MOBILE SERVICES

Topics: Augmented, Mixed and Virtual Environments; Mobile Interfaces; Graphical Interfaces

Authors: Mário Freitas , António Augusto de Sousa and António Coelho

Affiliation: FEUP, Portugal

Digital Object Identifier: 10.5220/0001805903280336

Proceedings of GRAPP 2009/VISIGRAPP, ISBN: 978-989-8111-67-8

Quick Abstract

Nowadays, there is a wide range of commercial LBMS (Location-Based Mobile Services) available in the market, mainly in the form of GPS-based navigation solutions, and a trend towards the display of 3D maps can be clearly observed. Given the complete disparity of ideas and a visible commercial orientation in the industry, the study of the visualisation aspects that influence user performance and experience in the exploration of urban environments using 3D maps becomes an important issue. In this work, a generic conceptual framework is proposed whose main purpose is to objectively evaluate the impact and contribution of the major visualisation elements involved (henceforth mentioned as feature vectors). With this framework in mind, an online questionnaire was developed and administered to 149 test subjects in order to measure the real impact of feature vectors. The results clearly demonstrated that certain features have clear impact on user performance, and should be taken in account in LBMS development. As an example, just by displaying buildings with a 3D appearance, subjects were able to match more accurately the real environment with the one presented on a mobile device. In general, users were able to perform the tasks entrusted to them faster, if they were provided more realistic imagery.

Related Ontology Subjects/Areas/Topics (5)

Augmented, Mixed and Virtual Environments		Graphical Interfaces		Mobile Interfaces
Computer Vision, Visualization and Computer Graphics		Interactive Environments

JUMPING JACK - A Parallel Algorithm for Non-Monotonic Stream Compaction

Topics: Real-Time Rendering; Rendering Hardware; Parallel Rendering

Authors: Pedro Miguel Moreira ¹ , Luís Paulo Reis ² and A. Augusto de Sousa ³

Affiliations: ¹ ESTG-IPVC, Instituto Politécnico de Viana do Castelo; DEI/FEUP, Faculdade de Engenharia da Universidade do Porto, Portugal , ² DEI/FEUP, Faculdade de Engenharia da Universidade do Porto, LIACC, Laboratório de Inteligência Artificial e Ciência de Computadores, Portugal , ³ LIACC, Laboratório de Inteligência Artificial e Ciência de Computadores; INESC-Porto, Instituto de Engenharia de Sistemas e Computadores do Porto, Portugal

Digital Object Identifier: 10.5220/0001785001370146

Proceedings of GRAPP 2009/VISIGRAPP, ISBN: 978-989-8111-67-8

Quick Abstract

Stream Compaction is an important task to perform in the context of data parallel computing, useful for many applications in Computer Graphics as well as for general purpose computation on graphics hardware. Given a data stream containing irrelevant elements, stream compaction outputs a stream comprised by the relevant elements, discarding the rest. The compaction mechanism has the potential to enable savings on further processing, memory storage and communication bandwidth. Traditionally, stream compaction is defined as a monotonic (or stable) operation in the sense that it preserves the relative order of the data. This is not a full requirement for many applications, therefore we distinguish between monotonic and non-monotonic algorithms. The latter motivated us to introduce the Jumping Jack algorithm as a new algorithm for nonmonotonic compaction. In this paper, experimental results are presented and discussed showing that, although simple, the algorithm has interesting properties that enable it to perform faster than existent state-of-the-art algorithms, in many circumstances.

Related Ontology Subjects/Areas/Topics (5)

Computer Vision, Visualization and Computer Graphics		Real-Time Rendering		Rendering Hardware
Parallel Rendering		Rendering

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