New Virtual Reality Array Allows Immersive Experience Without the
Disorienting 3-D Goggles
From: EurekAlert - May 12, 2003
 
The University of Pennsylvania is using a new system called LiveActor to
allow users to interact in a virtual reality setting without 3-D glasses.
LiveActor works by combining an optical motion capture tool with a stereo
projection system. Users' physical actions are monitored as they interact
with the system's virtual characters. Ordinary virtual reality systems
typically offer more restricted simulations since only a few sensors are
placed on the body to track users' motions, says Norman I. Badler, University
of Pennsylvania professor and director of the Center of Human Modeling and
Simulation. LiveActor's "whole-body tracking" makes the virtual reality
experience more life-like, he says, and requires users to wear a unique suit
with some 30 sensors scattered across the body. The system is used on a stage
about 10 feet by 20 feet in area. Images can be displayed on a variety of
screens near the stage. In the past, virtual realty systems have been used
for games, medical visualization, and architectural applications, but
LiveActor can replicate almost any environment, keep a record of users'
reactions, and train people to modify their behavior given particular
scenarios.

LiveActor could also help those with post-traumatic stress disorder face their
fears in a comfortable, controlled environment. 

http://www.eurekalert.org/pub_releases/2003-05/uop-nvr051203.php