The MiniCAVE - A Voice-Controlled IPT Environment

摘要: The computer hardware for the CAVE and similar immersive projectiontechnology (IPT) virtual reality (VR) environments are normally high-end Silicon Graphics systems with expensive CRT-based projection systems. idea behind MiniCAVE concept is to downscale computing fast PCs running Windows NT relatively inexpensive robust LCD Much our surprise, when we started this project in early 1998, performance of a 200 megahertz Pentium Pro (at $3,000) was competitive an SGI Onyx RE2 $120,000) matrix-oriented mathematics software. This suggested that much cheaper version might be assembled using II hardware. Currently, working PC has two 466 processors. Also, both resolution frame rates LCD-type projectors have improved substantially during last few years. Brightness already better than CRT makes development IPT environment, MiniCAVE, based on technology feasible. should cost less $100,000 after development. Another problem typically occurs full scale large amount space; often 12x12x12 foot plus extra space rear projection. We propose 6x6x6 MiniCAVE. reduction dimension allows environment can placed many regularly sized rooms available at universities companies. halving linear walls matches capabilities projectors. As first software example (and just one PC), successfully ported stereoscopic fly-through demonstration package from Unix GL OpenGL. supports CrystalEyes liquid crystal shutter glasses so displays environment. While most applications use desktop metaphor navigation, moving suggests another more appropriate. implemented voice-command interface user control features by simply voice commands.