Graphical tools for digital avatars in virtual reality contexts

This thesis provides an in-depth exploration of the integration of digital avatars into virtual reality scenarios, focusing on tools and techniques that enhance the design, development, and testing of components within the aerospace sector. Utilizing Unreal Engine and the MetaHuman framework, this work investigates the implementation of realistic virtual avatars to support immersive simulations in space modules or scenarios. One of the primary objectives was to replace the previous MakeHuman avatar with a MetaHuman, using the advanced tools offered by Unreal Engine for animation such as Inverse Kinematics and Control Rig in order to obtain improved realism and an high quality user experience. The project involved updating and extending Unreal Engine plugins used in Thales Alenia Space's Virtual Reality Lab, calibrating the new avatar targets to allow its binding with the virtual reality equipment, such as the HTC Vive Pro 2, and updating the old deprecated bindings with the new Enhanced Input system. The final task required to extend a previous thesis work on a robotic arm by implementing a mean to interact with it during simulations. The results demonstrate the potential of virtual reality as a powerful tool in engineering contexts, particularly in aerospace, where immersion, ergonomics, and realism are crucial for effective simulation and testing. This work contributes to creating a more robust foundation for future VR applications and underscores the evolving role of virtual avatars in enhancing user experience and ergonomic evaluation.