Important preconditions for wide acceptance of virtual reality systems include their comfort, ease and naturalness to use. Most existing trackers suffer from discomfort related issues. For example, body-based trackers (such as hand controllers, joysticks or helmet attachments) restrict spontaneity and naturalness of motion, whereas ground-based devices (e.g., hand controllers) limit the workspace by literally binding an operator to the ground. Controls have similar problems. This paper describes using real-time video with registered depth information (from a commercially available camera) for virtual reality navigation. A camera-based setup can replace cumbersome trackers. The method includes selective depth processing for increased speed, and a robust skin-color segmentation for handling illumination variations.

This paper proposes using real-time video with registered depth information from a camera for virtual reality navigation, reducing discomfort and enhancing comfort and ease of use.

Feedback from video for virtual reality navigation

Key Takeaway: This paper proposes using real-time video with registered depth information from a camera for virtual reality navigation, reducing discomfort and enhancing comfort and ease of use.