HeadsetsThe headset is one of the more common methods of implementing virtual reality. Two screens are used, sending slightly different images to each eye. Head movement is tracked and the image is updated accordingly, giving the illusion that the user is actively changing the image.
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ImmersionVirtual reality systems have different classifications depending on the level of immersion. The most immersive systems require a headset to show the image and tracking devices to detect and respond to body movement and/or placement
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WorkbenchesWorkbenches can be considered a semi-immersive virtual reality system, in that it has similar functions but is restricted to a flat tabletop. Special glasses are used to see the projected image, and sensors allow one to interact with the image.
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The Issue of Motion Sickness
One of the current issues with virtual reality comes not from the technology itself, but how it affects us. For years there have been many cases of people suffering from a type of motion sickness as a result of using a virtual reality simulator. This is especially problematic for the military and for medical fields, where virtual reality is used for combat training and surgical simulation respectively. In the past month, Oculus has made it clear that this issue will be addressed with the Oculus Rift. |