Omni-Directional Treadmill
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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.
A third-generation, fully integrated, ODT-based simulator is called the “iPlaneTM”. It is a gaming and internet communication appliance, addressing numerous high-growth markets. The iPlaneTM is a disruptive technology that will change the way we interact both as individuals and as groups. This physical interface is the final link in the convergence of fast computers, low cost graphics, and broadband infrastructure. It is the literal next-step in the evolution of human-computer interfaces. It is the step that takes us fully into cyberspace.
| by: Virtual Space Devices licence: Copyright / All rights reserved tags: virtual reality omni directional treadmill |
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“The iPlaneTM is a disruptive technology that will change the way we interact both as individuals and as groups”
I’d love to see a “group” riding it out on this, it would probably deeply change interaction.
Jamiroquai wants like a lot of those…
He looks like he’s having so much fun…
The term “Omni-Directional” seems inordinate: the treadmill works back and forth, not in all directions.
But if the armed forces liked the name…
Ch.
This really is pretty amazing stuff… one step closer to a VR world
This is a really good idea, it could be developed further and slope to simulate elevation.
@ el d1eg0: mwahahaha! indeed!
But okay, more seriously, that would be a great tool for hospitals to be used in reeducation and senior homes for indoor walking!