UROP Project
Immersive Augmented/Virtual Reality Prototyping for SysML-Based System Models
SysML, AR/VR, Unity, Digital Twin
Research Mentor: Mr. Naqash Ali,
Department, College, Affiliation: Center for Advanced Power Systems, N/A
Contact Email: na22j@fsu.edu
Research Assistant Supervisor (if different from mentor): Dr. David Gross
Research Assistant Supervisor Email: dcgross@eng.famu.fsu.edu
Faculty Collaborators:
Faculty Collaborators Email:
Department, College, Affiliation: Center for Advanced Power Systems, N/A
Contact Email: na22j@fsu.edu
Research Assistant Supervisor (if different from mentor): Dr. David Gross
Research Assistant Supervisor Email: dcgross@eng.famu.fsu.edu
Faculty Collaborators:
Faculty Collaborators Email:
Looking for Research Assistants: Yes
Number of Research Assistants: 1
Relevant Majors: Computer Engineering, Computer Science, Systems Engineering, Industrial Engineering
Project Location: On FSU Main Campus
Research Assistant Transportation Required: Remote or In-person: Partially Remote
Approximate Weekly Hours: 5-10, Flexible schedule (Combination of business and outside of business. TBD between student and research mentor.)
Roundtable Times and Zoom Link:
Not participating in the roundtable
Number of Research Assistants: 1
Relevant Majors: Computer Engineering, Computer Science, Systems Engineering, Industrial Engineering
Project Location: On FSU Main Campus
Research Assistant Transportation Required: Remote or In-person: Partially Remote
Approximate Weekly Hours: 5-10, Flexible schedule (Combination of business and outside of business. TBD between student and research mentor.)
Roundtable Times and Zoom Link:
Not participating in the roundtable
Project Description
This project explores the use of Augmented and Virtual Reality (AR/VR) to visualize and interact with SysML-based system models. By connecting SysML models to Unity-based AR/VR environments, students will enable immersive prototyping of system designs. The objectives are to (1) develop a pipeline for importing SysML model data into Unity, (2) create an interactive AR/VR prototype to explore system architectures, and (3) demonstrate the potential of AR/VR to enhance comprehension, training, and design reviews in MBSE.Research Tasks: Learn the basics of SysML, Unity, and AR/VR development.
Review existing methods for displaying engineering models in virtual environments.
Select information from SysML models to display, such as system components, connections, and requirements.
Help convert SysML model information into a format that Unity can use.
Build a Unity scene that represents a system architecture.
Develop simple interactions for navigating, selecting, highlighting, and inspecting system components.
Test the prototype using available AR/VR equipment or a desktop simulation.
Identify problems with data import, visualization, usability, and performance.
Create example models and demonstration scenarios for design reviews or training.
Document the model-import process and contribute to presentation materials and the final report.
Skills that research assistant(s) may need: Required
Interest in AR/VR, engineering design, computer graphics, or systems modeling.
Basic computer skills and willingness to learn new software.
Good organization, problem-solving, and attention to detail.
Ability to follow tutorials and testing instructions.
Willingness to learn Unity, basic programming, and SysML concepts.
Ability to communicate and work reliably with the research team.
Recommended, but not required
Coursework or interest in engineering, computer science, game development, or digital media.
Basic programming experience, especially with C#.
Familiarity with Unity, Blender, CAD software, AR/VR hardware, or 3D modeling.
Experience with SysML, XML, JSON, or other structured data formats.
No previous experience with SysML, Unity, or AR/VR development is required; training and guidance will be provided.
Mentoring Philosophy
As a mentor, my goal is to create an environment where undergraduate researchers can confidently explore new ideas, develop technical skills, and contribute meaningfully to active research. I view mentorship as a collaborative process — students bring curiosity, fresh perspectives, and energy, while I provide guidance, resources, and structure to help them grow.I believe in balancing independence with support. Students will receive the background, tools, and initial training needed to get started, but will also be encouraged to take ownership of their work, make decisions, and learn through problem-solving. I emphasize clear communication, regular check-ins, and constructive feedback to ensure progress while maintaining flexibility for different learning styles.
My projects often combine technical research with creative problem-solving, so I encourage students to ask questions, challenge assumptions, and connect their work to real-world applications. Above all, I want students to leave the experience with not only new skills but also greater confidence in their ability to learn, adapt, and contribute in any professional or academic setting.