Virtual Space Devices, Inc. has developed omni-directional treadmill (ODT) technology over the last 10 years, working primarily with the US Army. Combining the infinite plane of the ODT with an immersive virtual reality system permits an immersant to walk or run freely through the digital landscape. Navigation is transparent and natural. Immersion is total. The ODT surface is flat and continuous. It is not a bowl or made of discrete plates. The infinite surface is motion-slaved to the user’s motion with tight control and no inertial residue. Belts that comprise the surface are substantially similar to those used in conventional treadmills. First work on omni-directional treadmill (ODT) technology began with a $400K US Army STRICOM contract in 1996. (…) Second-generation technology is larger, faster, and quieter. We are building multiple unitsLooks like a better alternative than the virtusphere.
Friday, August 10, 2007
Omni-Directional Treadmill
w00t, the holodeck just came a step closer.
I'm wondering how this technology will maintain high-speed movements. It seems to do the job for relatively slow movements, but let's speed up the pace and then see what happens.
ReplyDeletethey say it also works for running
ReplyDelete"Combining the infinite plane of the ODT with an immersive virtual reality system permits an immersant to walk or run freely through the digital landscape. "