2/5/2025 | 3:30 PM - 5:10 PM | Grand Peninsula D

ScryVR: A Systematic Framework for Accelerating Experimental Research in VR

Author(s)

Levi Scully | University of Nevada Reno
Jose Toro-Cerna | University of Nevada Reno
Pengbo Chu | University of Nevada Reno
Frederick Harris, Jr. | University of Nevada Reno
Sergiu Dascalu | University of Nevada Reno

Abstract

VR technology as a field has consistently been maturing, making its way into recent consumer markets in a large manner. However, with the new innovations in VR equipment, it has also created research walls in the form of specialized hardware, complex data management, as well as the need for specialized high-level skillsets pertaining to VR. This paper introduces ScryVR, a systematic framework for accelerating the design and supervision of user studies in VR environments. Implemented using the Unity game engine, the Meta Quest hardware, and the Meta XR Core SDK, ScryVR's proposes a methodical, step-based approach and related set of tools and features, including automation capabilities. To analyze the strengths and weaknesses of ScryVR as supporting software for experimental research, a previously published study by Putze et al (2020) has been adapted, this time re-designed and conducted using ScryVR. Our research hypothesis is that the results will indicate an increase in user satisfaction and presence (the latter, in the sense of "being there," in the environment) when participants complete the questionnaire in the virtual environment, thus contributing to the expanding body of VR R&D. Furthermore, we expect that the proposed experimental research will confirm the potential of ScryVR as a viable supporting method and toolset for VR and AR applications.