The DataGlove This device originally started as an input system for computers. It was later used for virtual reality systems.
Thomas Zimmerman invented the prototype of the DataGlove and began looking for other people to help work on it. The device used 6502 microcontrollers. Zimmerman met
Mitch Altman and asked him to join VPL part-time because Altman knew how to program the microcontrollers. The system was wired to a computer. It was interactive and contained fiber-optic bundles to track movements and orientation. That data would then be transmitted to the computer so that the information could be duplicated virtually. It allowed for people to manipulate and re-orient virtual objects. Applications for this wearable device centered on input computer control, gaming, and also the potential for remote surgery. VPL licensed the DataGlove technology to
Mattel, which used it to make the
Power Glove.
The EyePhone This was a head mounted display (HMD) that was meant to immerse users into a computer simulation. Despite being one of the earliest virtual reality systems in history, it could track head movements - even back then. However, the technical specifications were somewhat limited. For instance, the headset could only generate five or six frames per second, which was less than the 30 frames per second generated by common television sets at the time. The EyePhone was primarily a research device. Although it was displayed at technology conferences like the Texpo Telecommunications Show, the cost kept the device out of reach from consumers. The entire system, including the computers required to run it, cost upwards of $250,000. The headset used
Fresnel lenses.
The DataSuit The DataSuit was a full-body outfit with sensors for measuring the movement of arms, legs, and trunk.
The Reality Built For Two (RB2) The AudioSphere ==Team members==