Professional driving simulator
Our client requested the development of a new version of a driving simulation used by occupational therapists. The software’s goal is to assess if patients with reduced cognitive functions can drive a vehicle without presenting danger on the road.
Client
Systems Technology Inc.
Sector
Driving simulations
Occupational therapy
Services
Software development
Game & art design
Technology
Unity, C#, Windows PC
Project overview
People with medical conditions or suffering from reduced cognitive functions may be directed for an assessment of their ability to drive. The ensure the tests are completely safe, they’re conducted in a driving simulator. Occupational therapists monitor the examinees, launch scenarios and judge if it’s safe for the patients to keep driving vehicles.
STI provides occupational therapists with simulators used for those assessments. They also offer them for research purposes and driving training. Our job was to create a new version of the software used in them. It received a massive graphic update and a more realistic driving model alongside other important updates.
Visual results video
Challenge
The initial challenge was ensuring the new program ran smoothly on existing hardware. Ultimately, our client decided to modernize the devices. But the optimization to deliver the highest possible graphic quality while gathering an immense amount of data was still challenging.
What’s more, our client wanted the application to be modular and easy to work with for people of different technical skills – from designers to programmers. This meant we had to create very detailed and precise documentation and easy-to-use tools in the software itself.
Business Value
With over 30 years of market presence, our client sells high-quality, professional driving simulator systems. This includes all the hardware – monitor screens paired with driving wheels and other peripheral devices, depending on the system of choice.
STISIM Drive also offers the software to go along with the devices and sells it separately if needed. However, its previous version was becoming outdated by current standards. This project aimed to replace it with a more modern, functional and visually pleasing version.
The revised application has a better and more versatile map and scenario creator. Furthermore, the therapist received a new set of tools and more metrics to work with. All these updates make the software more attractive to potential clients.
Process and project scope
Technology stack
The target device in this project was a Windows PC combined with three screens and peripheral hardware, including a steering wheel and pedals.
We developed the software in Unity, using C# and several external plugins. Our Art Team created multiple 3D models and textures using Blender, Substance Painter and Substance Designers.
