Last month 3DFocus sat down with CEO of Virtusphere, Allan Latypov, to talk about the recent developments of their Virtusphere AR and VR experience they have been working on for the past 15 years.
The giant sphere, often described as a 'human hamster ball', is a 10 foot (diameter) hollow ball which allows a single user to walk or run in all directions on one spot.
There are no special shoes required to use the sphere (just don't wear heels), it uses the Sony HMZ headset in wired and wireless modes and comes with a Rolling Bar to help users keep their balance.
"Potentially Virtusphere allows a user to walk within any 3D space. We used VRPN open source software for adaptation of existing 3D applications to Virtusphere. Now we are close to finalising the development of the Virtual Game Controller that allows for Virtusphere users to get completely immersed in most 3D games without special modifications," said Allan Latypov.
There are three main types of Virtsphere configurations/packages: the Base Sphere, the Play Station sphere and the Simulator sphere.
The Base Sphere includes the mechanical components only - Sphere, wheeled platform and Rolling Bar. This configuration package is designed specifically for developers and vendors of electronic equipment for virtual reality.
The Virtusphere Play Station adds a computer, HMD, sensors, button manipulator and two sample applications. This is designed for companies working in the entertainment and advertisement markets, 3D application developers, universities and museums.
The Virtuphere Simulator which includes a 'ruggedised' Base Sphere which is designed for research institutions and organizations engaged in in the training of hazardous occupation specialists.
There are also several compatible graphics engines for content, including CryEngine3, Quake4, Second Life and Unity 3D.
So far Virtusphere has been sold in Germany, Russia, Switzerland, Turkey and many other countries. It has been bought by the West Point and several military bases for simulation training, several universities researching in the field of virtual reality and simulation and companies within the entertainment sector as well.
"Virtuasphere is [a] good simulation platform for Military, counter-terrorism units, police, firefighters, security, operators of nuclear power plants and petrochemmical plants for safely training and development of practical skills required for dangerous environments," continued Latypov.
Below is a brief video that showcases how the Virtusphere works, and you can read the full interview here.
