AR/VR Disaster Preparedness and Evacuation Simulation – IT & Computer Engineering Guide
1. Project Overview
The AR/VR Disaster Preparedness and Evacuation Simulation project is a mixed-reality training tool designed to educate users on safety protocols during natural and man-made disasters. The VR component offers immersive disaster simulations, while AR helps users visualize real-world evacuation paths and safety zones through mobile devices. This tool is targeted at schools, public institutions, emergency responders, and corporate safety programs.
2. System Architecture Overview
- VR Engine: Simulates immersive scenarios (earthquakes,
fires, floods)
- AR Guidance System: Displays evacuation routes and alerts in real-time
- Location Services: Identifies building layout for AR path mapping
- Emergency Content Management System (CMS): Stores training materials
- Interaction System: Allows user inputs during drills (e.g., fire extinguisher
use)
3. Hardware Components
|
Component |
Specifications |
Description |
|
VR Headset |
Meta Quest 2 / HTC Vive / Oculus Rift |
Used for immersive disaster simulations |
|
Mobile Device |
ARKit/ARCore enabled |
Displays AR evacuation routes and hazard overlays |
|
Wi-Fi Router |
High-speed, low-latency |
Ensures seamless AR data and cloud sync |
4. Software Components
4.1 Development Tools
- Unity 3D with AR Foundation and XR Toolkit
- Blender or Maya for creating disaster environments and models
- Firebase or AWS for content hosting and user tracking
- GIS tools for indoor mapping in AR
4.2 Programming Languages
- C#, Python, JavaScript, JSON for scenario scripts and APIs
4.3 Libraries and SDKs
- ARCore/ARKit SDK
- OpenXR / Oculus SDK / SteamVR Toolkit
- Vuforia (optional) for image-based AR triggers
- Firebase SDK for user data, progress, and analytics
5. Functional Modules
- Scenario Engine: Simulates earthquakes, floods, fires,
etc.
- Interactive Training Module: Engages users with emergency tools (e.g.,
extinguishers)
- AR Evacuation Overlay: Shows real-time paths and safety zones
- Notification System: Pushes alerts and instructions during scenarios
- Progress Tracker: Stores results and performance metrics for each user
6. User Experience and Interaction
- VR users experience simulated disasters from a
first-person perspective
- AR users scan surroundings to receive evacuation overlays and directions
- Scenario-driven interactions simulate real-life emergency responses
- Voice instructions, audio cues, and vibrations enhance urgency and realism
7. Applications and Benefits
- School and corporate disaster drills
- Public safety education in museums and community centers
- Emergency responder training
- Increased preparedness and reduced panic in real-world scenarios
8. Privacy and Security
- Minimal personal data collection
- Secure user tracking and role-based access for trainers
- Data encryption for user progress and scenario logs
- Compliance with institutional safety and privacy protocols
9. Testing and Deployment
- VR scenario calibration for intensity and realism
- Field testing AR pathfinding in real building layouts
- User experience testing across different age groups
- Distribution via app stores and local servers
10. Future Enhancements
- Real-time integration with building sensors and IoT alarms
- Multi-user evacuation drills
- Cloud dashboard for institution-wide progress tracking
- AI-generated disaster scenarios based on real-time data