Research impact

Our achievements

Through our various streams of research, we have developed technological initiatives that have made substantial impacts on a diverse range of fields. From the arts and defence to microsurgery and beyond – our work is vast and highly specialised.

Notable research and achievements include:

Virtual training

At IISRI we're able to create virtual training systems that can apply to many situations, particularly high-risk ones. 

A preliminary project resulting from a collaboration between Deakin and General Dynamics Information Technology is the 'haptically enabled' Hot Fire Trainer Program. Developed for the US and Australian defence departments, nuclear industry and fire fighters, the system enables trainees to experience realistic training scenarios in a safe, synthetic environment.

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Just like being there – motion simulation

Our world-leading Universal Motion Simulator (UMS) has proved to be an absolute game-changer.

'Once we load in the specifications of a particular vehicle type, the UMS can create the sensation and types of motion that drivers would experience if they were in the actual vehicle,' Deakin's lead UMS engineer, Dr Kyle Nelson explained.

The accuracy is formidable and enables simulation of even the most unusual vehicle motions, like the large tilt angles found in rugged terrain or the slipping or rollover scenarios of a tank in the desert – all in a controlled, safe and low-cost environment at Deakin.

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Working with the Defence Force

Many of our research streams have implications for the Australian Defence Force (ADF). IISRI's haptically enabled robotic system gives operators a realistic 'grasp and feel' of remote objects, and could become a vital capability for the ADF to investigate or disarm explosive devices with reduced risk to our soldiers and defence personnel. 

The Defence Science and Technology Organisation and Deakin signed a licence agreement to further develop the technology to a standard suitable for future ADF consideration. 

'It takes the human away from the danger zone but, at the same time, provides the right level of dexterity and immersion to complete their job', said Professor Saeid Nahavandi, Director of IISRI.