Virtual Reality

Virtual Reality Compact Disks (VRCDs) will feature three-dimensional imaging, surround sound and a track for haptics. One method to have the eyes see different pictures on a distant screen is to have eyes view the screen with polarized lenses. This is how "3D glasses" work in theaters. The interaction of the polarized filters with colors or other features of the picture on the screen changes the images, causing different perspectives and depth sensation. However, this technology has significant limitations. Another method to present one's eyes with alternate images is to use "shutter glasses." Shutter glasses alternatively block the image to one eye and then to the other, in synchronization with pictures from two different perspectives displayed in succession on a single screen. When the alternating images are shown in sufficiently quick succession, then the brain integrates the two images into a single 3D picture. Most head mounted displays used in virtual reality are a form of head device that spans: some type of shutter glasses; a relatively close high-resolution screen with a picture that spans more than one third of the cover of vision and moves with head motion; and a specialized mechanism to track head motion. You may also find defining virtual reality using psychological concepts of interest.

Interaction between people and computing systems built on sound is another key element of virtual reality. Fortunately, creating a realistic sound setting involves fewer technological challenges than simulating three-dimensional pictures or realistic tactile and motion interface. A good surround-sound audio system can give high quality computer-to-human sound transferral to match things and events in virtual reality. For high-performance applications, "aural ray tracing" can be used to simulate the effects of multiple connections between audio signals and surfaces in the virtual world. Further, application of speech recognition to virtual reality includes coverage of similar technologies.

The core of trade is connecting people to exchange goods and services. Virtual reality is becoming an efficient way to do just that. Some careers that connect people for trade are being undermined by internet systems which make those connections quicker, with greater complete information, and at lower cost. Some tasks done by stock brokers, travel agents, realtors, hotel chains, traditional dating services, and others are now done via the world wide web. The personal touch will not be totally replaced. In fact, some people in related professions are adapting and taking advantage of the new capabilities of the internet rather than allowing it to replace them. Also, virtual cartography has information on VR.

The formation of micro-lens and arrays of microscale mirrors with transparent polymers is enabling a whole new generation of three-dimensional imaging. Arrays of microscale lenses made from polymeric materials can be focused by shrinking or expanding using piezoelectric currents. The interaction of holographic laser pictures with micro-lens or micro-mirror arrays can lead to genuinely three-dimensional moving pictures. The site on virtual reality and computer vision delves into some of these issues as well.