MOMENTUM • VIRGINIA TECH MECHANICAL ENGINEERING 27
The next step
Being able to move around a virtual environment presents its own set of challenges . Video games normally accomplish this by using joysticks or keypads , meaning that a user is essentially pushing buttons with their fingers to achieve virtual reality walking . Other input devices , such as pads and devices that fit like shoes , require some form of walking in place to input the motion .
Virginia Tech is working with University of Florida and HaptX to bring together motion , touch response , visual interaction , and more . The hopeful result is a full-body virtual reality rig that allows users to see the environment through a headset , achieve touch via the HaptX gloves , and both walk and interact by using an exoskeleton .
The project is called ForceBot , drawing on the term “ force feedback ,” the general classification of controls that impact objects in the virtual environment . Responsive robotics working with a user ’ s feet would allow walking , simulate changes in terrain , and move a user through the electronic world . Additional robotics in a hand and arm rig would provide resistance for pushing and pulling simulated solid objects , while the HaptX gloves complete the experience with touch response . The visual headset would allow a user to see the electronic environment unfold before them .
“ We are excited to have the opportunity to develop a fully immersive virtual reality experience , providing realistic full-body interactions ,” said Leonessa . “ Virtual reality is a familiar technology , but the untapped potential it holds is vast .”
Early sketch of what ForceBot might look like .