Organisation Description

The EPICentre is a recently established research and development centre in the field of information displays and activities related to the human-device interface. It has been established to promote collaboration between university research groups and industrial partners in the above fields, and specifically to aid SMEs to address new technologies in the fields of information control and communications. A five-unit Research Hotel is available within the EPICentre for this purpose. The Centre draws expertise from university research groups at Abertay and elsewhere in the areas of physics (photonics), psychology, engineering and computer science. This type of interdisciplinary research is particularly suited to activities in such a diverse, rapidly advancing field. Part of the University of Abertay Dundee.

Main Markets

The primary markets for EPICentre skills include:

• The display manufacturing industry * Manufacturers seeking accreditation for display types

• OEMs incorporating displays in their products * Vendors with general Human Factors requirements

Services Offered

• Characterisation of flat-panel displays (FPD) including LCD, PDP and FED types
• Human Factors evaluation of displays and other Human-Device Interface aspects
• Optics and technology of novel display types

• Materials for display technologies

Specialised Skills and Facilities

Display technologies are a pivotal aspect of EPICentre research activities. Until recently, a large fraction of our psychology research in human factors has been in military, and specifically aerospace, applications. This has involved organisations like British Aerospace, GEC and the Royal Air Force. With the merging of our research interests in photonics, psychology, engineering and computing in the EPICentre, we are interested in research and development themes linked to the consumer and office products market, and especially in the field of displays.
Current activities that offer opportunities for interdisciplinary research and development include:

• Human-Device Interaction (HDI).
• Human Factors Research, including display technologies

• Virtual Reality and Virtual Environments. Enhanced Environments.

The Centre comprises 1100 sq.m. of fully serviced laboratory space, within the University campus at 9 West Bell Street, Dundee.

Collaboration Sought or Offered

Collaborations related to research in displays and the human-machine interface are a primary focus of EPICentre activities. Collaborations are welcomed with academic partners, with industrial/commercial enterprises, and with government agencies having an interest in these fields.