A rapid prototyping framework for the development of Virtual Environments in mental health

Virtual Environments (VEs) can be used as a tool for the analysis of mental parameters as well as for therapy of special mental disorders. The framewo rk allows the rapid development of virtual environments for scientific psyc hological experiments. It consists of configurable modules for any type of visualization device, including head mounted display, stereo wall projectio n, and CAVE. Other modules provide basic interaction methods such as naviga tion and object selection. The interaction methods are not dependent on spe cific hardware devices. For the postanalysis of experiments, the framework includes a database that stores all movements and interactions of the users . A playback function shows all parameters of a session including the resul ting changes in the VE. Additionally, all interactions can be transmitted v ia serial connection or internet to external analysis equipment. Because me dical measurement tools provide the same protocols, the interaction data ca n be easily co-related with heart rate, blood pressure, EEG, or other varia bles. The design of specific applications is supported by an interpreted sc ripting language (TCL). Using the object oriented extension [incrTcl], typi cal applications can be described in a very compact form. Beyond 3D interac tion methods, the framework supports the fast-application, specific develop ment of graphical user interfaces (GUI). The GUIs are used to enable the ps ychiatrist to control all parameters of the application. The GUI and the VE are independent applications and communicate via an internet protocol.