THESIS PROGRESS REPORT CREATING A FULLY INTERACTIVE 3D SIMULATION TOUR OF DILIMAN COMPUTER TECHNOLOGY INSTITUTE

By

Michael Carlo Cabisan Lawrence Ainsley Rodriguez

Adviser: Ms. Joan Sao Reader: Mr. Dennis Jorge

November 2013

1.0 Introduction
The thesis entitled Creating a Fully Interactive 3D Simulation Tour of Diliman Computer Technology Institute is currently in the process of development and research. As of November 2013, the researchers of the thesis are undergoing further studies necessary for the thesis. Continuation of the development on the thesis program is also being tasked upon with the work split between the two researchers. Tasks being performed by the researchers include field work such as taking photographic references around DCTI, as well as library and internet research on significant information regarding 3D simulation development, graphical elements and architectural principles. Interviews of important people are also conducted, as well as general development regarding the actual programming and design work on the thesis program.

2.0 Background
The thesis requires substantial information regarding the programming process in creating a 3D software capable of simulating an interactive environment using 3D polygonal assets and graphical textures. Reference photos are taken personally by the researchers to create a fairly accurate replica of DCTI inside the simulation, with different angles and multiple shots to make sure designing the 3D replicas are accurate. Research involves both literature studies on libraries and articles, as well as internet research for updated information and confirmation of accuracy. On top of this are studies on the principles of architecture as well, to ensure believability and accuracy during development. Since a simulated tour requires a substantial accuracy and believability in relation to the real life counterpart, studies regarding these different branches are significant. Another significant process on the development are interviews and surveys. Assurance of accuracy and approval from the school staff are necessary to capture an acceptable experience for DCTI as a simulated tour. The dean, faculty members, computer staff, janitorial staff, students and parents are key groups to be considered on the demographic of the thesis. As based on their information to transfer from real life process to simulated objective in the thesis program, as well as matching their criteria based on different categories, are important to take note in ensuring a proper simulation experience of DCTI.

The workload is split between the two researchers, where one may do the research field work, and another doing the actual software development process. The two researchers tasks are interchangeable so that both researchers may be experienced and knowledgeable in everything going on the thesis development and be kept up to date.

3.0 Accomplishments
The researchers so far have accomplished roughly 65-70% of the necessary work needed for the thesis. To organize the objectives, the accomplishments below are categorized two sections, one for development which lists down the progress of the actual program and its respective workload. Another for research which lists down the necessary work for interviews, surveys, reference taking, statistics evaluation and such. Development: 1. 3D engine for main framework of interactive environment successfully programmed under the Unity engine coded with C# and JavaScript. 2. Controllable first person view of the school functioning along with ability to walk, run, jump, open doors and pick up certain objects. 3. Basic 3D polygon model replicas designed and ported into the engine. Includes front building of DCTI, lobby, stairs, 2 sets of classrooms and quadrangle. 4. Basic 2D textures applied on 3D assets such as ground tiles, wall paint and sky assets such as clouds and the sun. 5. Beta builds of offline executable build and online browser based version build are compiled and have been tested during Thesis 1s Halfway Defense. Research: 1. Researched around seven (7) literature reviews and studies regarding the fields of simulation, computer programming and architecture. 2. Undergone so far a single statistical survey of the beta builds based on the stakeholder groups of faculty, student and parents. Usage of Kendalls W based on five (5) different criteria are prioritized in creating an acceptable program of the thesis. 3. Taken multiple referential photographs of DCTI, prioritizing the important structures and rooms first required for the thesis programs development. 4. Undergone interviews on different students and staff to determine important criteria.

4.0 Problems
The researchers have encountered some hindrances and problems along the thesis process as well, with mostly in relation to the accomplishments so far and the things needed for the future works. Only one system unit belonging to one of the researchers has access on development asset and tools. Continuation on the development of the program is only possible so far under one system unit. Development efficiency so far is thus reduced than its possible full potential. Only one camera for reference photos is used so far to take the necessary photographs of DCTIs areas. Range of demographical beta testing limited so far, as it is necessary to gather system specifications on each testers computer, since this process is require to optimize the program for low end and high end systems.

5.0 Future Work

For the rest of the month and remaining year of 2013, the researchers aim to accomplish the following objectives for the benefit of the future of the thesis. Development: 1. Polish the 3D engine, and implement features such as a working main menu, dialog system, and pop up information. 2. Finish up current 3D assets with proper textures and placement in relation to a close replica of the real life counterpart. 3. Design and model more 3D assets of buildings and rooms of DCTI. 4. Optimize the program and add in other graphical features. Research: 1. Research further with more literature studies and reviews, including similar thesis by other researchers. 2. Research more on internet articles to give another perspective on information, as well as to ensure up to date information.

3. Perform more interviews and surveys to fine tweak the program based on criteria and suggestions.

6.0 Conclusion
The thesis so far has accomplished more than half of the necessary work on its development, spanning around 65-70% finished in the middle of the thesis course. The programs base framework is finished, allowing the development process of implementing the rest of the features taking most of the development time in the future. Along with this, is expanding research studies further with more beta testing and criteria evaluation on statistics based on different demographics within the stakeholders.

7.0 Approval

Prof. Joan P. Sao Adviser

Prof. Dennis Jorge Reader