SEND Project: Bus Simulation
This project is a VR bus project designed for children with autism.
The project's objective is to train these children to independently navigate public transportation.
1. Clear and Intuitive Game Instructions
At the beginning of the experience, a UI will inform you that your task is to board the correct bus and head to the Stadium stop. A UI animation will then demonstrate how to use the controller.
2. Realistic Bus Models
I referenced Stagecoach buses for my design, and created 3D models and textures in Maya, and then applied them in Unity.
3. Breathing Exercises
This is a crucial feature of the project, especially for children with autism. Before each significant action, users are given the opportunity to engage in breathing exercises, helping them calm their minds and muster the courage to tackle the upcoming tasks. The breathing exercises will include text instructions, background music, and visual effects. Since bus rides in real life are often very fast-paced, there is rarely an opportunity to complete a full set of breathing exercises. The VR Bus Simulation addresses this by providing a controlled environment where such practices can be effectively integrated.
Basically, users are required to follow instructions for inhaling and exhaling. Upon completing a set of breathing exercises, users can choose to either end the breathing session and proceed with the next task or restart the breathing exercises to adjust their state before continuing with the task.
4. Interactive Bus Driver
After boarding the bus, the driver will guide you through the payment process. Once payment is complete, the driver will instruct you to take a seat. Throughout this process, the driver will always face you.
5. Automated Stop Announcements
Once the vehicle starts moving, it will automatically announce the upcoming stops and ask if you wish to disembark at each one.
6. Realistic Stop Request Button for Disembarking
If the next stop is where the user needs to disembark, a UI will prompt them to press the "stop request" button. An XR interactive button is used here, simulating the experience of pressing the stop button on a real bus. There’s also a sound effect of this button, which is almost the same with the real bus.
7. Encouragement-Centered Approach
Throughout the experience, all multiple-choice questions, even if answered incorrectly, will guide the user towards the correct direction. This approach is designed to encourage children with autism, reducing the pressure of making mistakes. Whether choosing a route, boarding the bus, or deciding to disembark, the system ensures users are gently directed towards the right choices. For example, when you choose a wrong route, a reminder will inform you that this route does not lead to the stadium, asking you to select again until the correct route is chosen to proceed. Similarly, if you attempt to board the wrong bus, a prompt will notify you that this is not the bus you should take, and you will need to select again until the correct bus is chosen before you can board. A similar situation will occur when you need to get off the bus. If you attempt to get off at the wrong stop, a prompt will notify you that this is not the correct stop, and you'll need to wait and choose the correct stop before you get off.