VIRTUAL REALITY

To view this Virtual Reality space, no viewer is needed, just download the executable 3,95M.

This is a simple Virtual Reality example demonstrating various representations of an elephant: a text about him, a sketch of him, a photograph of him, a video of him and some versions of 3D virtual models of him.

This application is much like a video game. However, the term "Virtual Reality" also refers to the use of suitable hardware for experiencing a Virtual Environment. Therefore, this example should be viewed using a Head Mounted Display (see My_MR_Lab) and ysing a wired glove and a pair of headphones, for creating a feeling of immersion, characteristic of a Virtual Environment.

BASICS INSTRUCTIONS FOR NAVIGATING IN THE VIRTUAL ENVIRONMENT

• keyboard arrows: paving your way in the virtual world (also A,D,W,S for left, right, front, back respectively)
• mouse: orientating yourself in the virtual world
• m: start prerecorded fire - particle effects animation
• p: stop prerecorded - particle effects animation
• spacebar: reset application

You may use a speaker in conjuction with a voice recognition software in place of your keyboard. This augments the ffeling of immersion in the Virtual Environment, as further isolation from the physical environment is achieved (see My_MR_Lab).

For further examples of virtual spaces you may look in the links section. Also you may visit some of my first virtual spaces I designed, following this link: http://pclab.arch.ntua.gr/04students2/a_kols/vrml.htm.

A SECOND EXAMPLE

These pictures are taken from a virtual space, that uses mirrors which reflect forest images, with a view to augmenting the room boundaries. Visitors feel that they are in a spacious room. Also avatars that appear to be made of plaster make a contradiction between digital and physical means we use today.

VIRTUAL REALITY AND VIDEO GAMING

Virtual Reality has a long time ago entered our houses through video gaming. Video games are Virtual Reality applications, at heart, with the difference that in order to experiecne them, most of times there is no need for special hardware. A monitor and a joystick are usually enough.

Traditionally, a joystick has been enough. Yet, from the very beginning there has been a lot of work in developing affordable Virtual Reality hardware - HMDs, Gloves, stereoscopic displays.

As a tribute to one of the first video game consoles, which made a considerable attempt to bring stereoscopic displays and Head-Mounted dispays in our homes, I have dedicated a section to Sega Master System.

Sega Master System is Sega's 8-bit console which was released in 1986. Nowadays, there are many Sega Master System enthusiasts that keep this console alive, through critics, reviews and even programming new games in 8-bit Assembly. For those who had a Sega Master System in their childhood, at present it appears to be a fruitful domain of activity and interest.

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