Virtual reality uses computer technology to simulate real or imagined environments and experiences. Early pioneers like Morton Heilig in the 1960s and Ivan Sutherland in 1968 created prototype head-mounted displays. Jaron Lanier released the first consumer virtual reality headset called the EyePhone in 1984. Nintendo released the Virtual Boy portable game console in 1995. In 2011, Oculus VR released the prototype for the Oculus Rift headset, which uses lenses, gyroscopes, and accelerometers to track head movement and display 3D graphics with a 110 degree field of view.

1. Oculus Rift
an exploration in virtual reality

2. What is virtual reality?
• Simulation that provides the experience of a physical presence
• The recreation of human senses (sight, sound, touch, taste, smell)
• Primarily used to simulate real-life or imaginary scenarios

5. Morton Heilig

6. • Displayed stereoscopic 3D
images in a wide-frame view
• Supplied stereo sound
• Simulated wind, body tilt and
could produce aromas
Sensorama
Prototype built in 1962

7. Ivan Sutherland

8. • First virtual reality head-mounted
display
• Supported head tracking
• Displayed 3D graphics using
wireframes
Sword of Damocles
Prototype built in 1968

9. Jaron Lanier

10. Jaron Lanier

11. • First consumer head-mounted
display
• Displayed colour graphics
• Used hand gestures to interact
with a virtual world
The
EyePhoneReleased in 1984

12. • Marketed as the first portable
game console that could display
“true 3D graphics”
• Monochromatic display
• Used oscillating mirrors to create
a 3D effect
Nintendo Virtual Boy
Released in 1995

13. • Uses lenses and a split screen to
display 3D graphics
• Tracks movement using
gyroscope and accelerometer
• 110 degree field of view
Oculus Rift
Prototype released in 2011

15. John Carmack

16. $2 Billion Dollars

17. How does it work?

18. Stereoscopic Images

19. Stereoscopic Images

20. Stereoscopic Images

21. Gyroscope

22. Accelerometer

24. Questions?

25. Demo Time