Also known as a virtual environment or abbreviated VR, virtual reality refers to an artificial environment brought about through sensory stimuli provided by a computer, and in which one's actions partially determine what occurs in the environment.
The technology used to create a virtual reality is also known as virtual reality.
VR uses computer technology to create a simulated, three-dimensional world that the user can explore and manipulate while experiencing it as if he were in that world. In a VR experience, three-dimensional images appear to be life-sized from the perspective of the user, and the technology tracks the user's motions, particularly head and eye movements, correspondingly adjusting images on the user's display to reflect the change in perspective, while the user experiences the sensation of immersion in the artificial environment.
Currently, virtual reality is used in video games and other entertainment purposes, as well as military and medical training.
Virtual reality headsets are often used to generate realistic images, sounds, and other sensations that create the virtual environment, but it may also be created through specially designed rooms with multiple large screens.
Besides gaming, virtual reality is used in health care to teach diagnosis and treatment, even surgical procedures. A form of virtual reality therapy is used to help stroke and brain injury patients regain motor and cognitive functions, using virtual exercises and real-time feedback that feels like games, helping to motivate patients to practice everyday activities.
NASA uses VR technology to control robots on Mars, as well as providing astronauts with a way to relieve stress. Researchers are also using virtual reality to simulate a walk on Mars to prepare astronauts for a potential human landing on that planet.
Work is underway to allow visitors to experience famous museums remotely, using virtual reality technology. The American Museum of Natural History in New York City made some of its collections virtually accessible last year. Anyone with a smartphone and a Cardboard VR headset can tour the museum remotely.
The Ford Motor Company is using virtual reality to simulate new automobile designs before they have been manufactured, allowing designers and engineers to inspect various elements of the proposed vehicle, spotting potential problems before the vehicle has been produced. Virtual reality is also being used to teach teens about the dangers of distracted driving.
It has yet to be introduced into an American courtroom, but the technology exists for jury members to view crime scenes in 3D rather than through two-dimensional photographs and charts.
As mentioned earlier, the US military uses virtual reality to train soldiers before they are deployed, including the use of non-commercial versions of games like Virtual Battlespace 2 and Unity 3D, which allow soldiers to practice working together in realistic scenarios.
Of course, there are several other situations in which virtual reality may be used, and there are sure to be more in the future. The focus of this category is virtual reality. Any website focused on VR technology is appropriate for this category.
Recommended Resources
CNET reports on developments in technology, culture, and science. Its portal to virtual reality includes several articles on VR, including news of recent events in VR and reviews of several virtual reality programs, including the hardware, software, and technology involved. The most recently published articles are on the first page, while older articles are published on subsequent pages. Links to products and other online resources and on the subject are also included.
https://www.cnet.com/tags/virtual-reality/
Google’s work in augmented reality and virtual reality are featured here, including its AR developer tools, its inexpensive VR Cardboard virtual reality device, as well as Daydream, a platform for high-quality mobile VR, Earth VR, Expeditions, and Tilt Brush, which allows users to paint in 3D space, available for the Oculus Rift and HTC VIVE. Its own technologies and products, as well as recent news in the field of virtual reality. Several examples are given.
https://arvr.google.com/
Originally known as Habbo Hotel, Habbo is a social networking service and virtual community whose members are mostly between 13 and 18. It started with one hotel in 2000 and has expanded to include nine hotels, with users in more than a hundred and fifty countries. Users create their own Habbo character, design hotel rooms, meet friends, chat with other users, organize parties, look after virtual pets, play games, and complete quests. Memberships are free.
https://www.habbo.com/
The US-based company develops iOS and Android augmented reality applications and games for retail, marketing campaigns, and loyalty programs. With offices in Florida, Ohio, and London, the company’s products include its 3D Cloud Platform, several 3D applications, 3D modeling services, and 3D content syndication, which are highlighted here, along with its 3D software programs. Videos, a customer photo gallery, 3D renderings gallery, podcasts, and a blog are included.
https://www.marxentlabs.com/
Offering software products for virtual reality, Trinus offers the Trinus Cardboard VR, which is compatible with most Google Cardboard headsets and allows the user to connect their smartphone to the PC, as well as the Trinus VR, which is designed to be used with Daydream-compatible devices, and the Trinus PSVR, which is designed for use with the Sony Virtual Reality headset. A key feature of Trinus is its conversion of non-VR games to VR. Support information is included.
https://www.trinusvirtualreality.com/
Virtual Realities is a worldwide distributor of virtual reality, providing head-mounted displays, head trackers, motion trackers, data gloves, 3D controllers, Haptic devices, stereoscopic 3D displays, VR domes, and VR software, each of which are described in detail and shown in photographs, along with prices, and the ability to make purchases online. A description of the company’s support services is included. A brief history and profile of the company are included.
https://www.vrealities.com/
The VRS is a one-stop information and news source for information about virtual reality and related technologies. Virtual reality is defined, including its history and development, human factors, and studies. Virtual reality applications, augmented reality, and virtual worlds are reviewed, and guides to VR headsets and other gear is put forth, with information about ways in which the technology is used. Profiles of significant people involved in VR and product reviews are included.
https://www.vrs.org.uk/
