Plato, in his famed Republic, introduced "The Allegory of the Cave" through which he was able to explore the concepts of reality and human perception. In his exploration, Plato used the analogy of a man who defined the foundation of his reality by the dancing shadows of firelight which shone upon the walls of his cave. From this analogy, the idea of the Cave Automatic Virtual Environment (CAVE) was conceived.
      The CAVE works by reproducing many of the visual cues that your brain uses to decipher the world around you. Information such as the differing perspectives presented by your eyes, depth occlusion, and parallax (to name a few) are all combined into the single composite image that you are conscious of, while the rest is decoded by your brain to provide you with depth cues. All of this information must be presented in real-time, as you move about in the CAVE. To achieve this remarkable feat, the complex network of computer hardware and software known as the CAVE was created.
     The CAVE provides true stereoscopic imagery through the use of four rear-projected screens using an active stereo system. Projector images are bounced off of mylar mirrors. Infrared active stereo LCD shutter glasses and projectors are used to provide true stereo at an ideal rate of thirty frames per second for each eye.  A twelve-processor Silicon Graphics Onyx 2 Reality Monster powers the CAVE through four Infinite Reality 2 graphics boards. In addition, an eight channel digital sound environment is available.  Wired tracking is provided through electromagnetic tracking or the new ultrasonic tracking system.

     The first regular all-engineering open house was held in the spring of 1920, commemorating the centennial of the birth of James Watt. The public was invited to inspect the facilities of the Engineering College and to see the displays, which had been set up in the laboratories, drafting rooms, and shops.
     Starting in 1948 and carrying through 1952, the Open House was held biannually. However, following the 1950 show, it was suggested that the Open House be planned as an annual affair. This proposal was accepted by both Engineering Council and the Executive Committee of the College of Engineering as an experiment in 1952 and 1953.
     Its longstanding goal has been to better acquaint both students from other colleges as well as the general public with the goals and accomplishments of the College of Engineering. The exhibits are intended to readily demonstrate the fundamental principles upon which engineering is based.  Outside exhibits such as those from commercial organizations are sought only when they demonstrate the desired concepts more clearly than can student-prepared displays. Admission to Engineering Open House is free.
     When visitors arrive on March 14th, 2003 the Engineering Open House once again serves as a symbol of the promise and attainment of the engineering profession.  Be sure to join us!

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