Whole Body Kinesthetic Displays

Virtual reality-based training systems are becoming a reality. Significant advances in photo-realistic image rendering has made reasonably priced high performance computer generated visuals commonplace. While development of the visual aspect of a virtual world is a significant artistic enterprise, it is no longer technically difficult. Similarly, computer capture and generation of digitized sound, management of sound resources, and playback and 3D placement of sounds in a virtual environment is straight forward. However, virtualization of motion (kinesthetic and haptic) cues is in its infancy. In this proposed work we will perform the basic trade analysis, design, and simulation of a system to provide full body digitally programmed kinesthetic display. The proposing group is ideally suited for this task because we already have industries most mature kinesthetic display systems architecture commercially in-place, built kinesthetic devices for seat, hand, arm, finger and head action display, and have experience integrating high-end VR systems which combine visualizations, sound synthesis, and kinesthetic display. In this effort we will integrate current technology and extend it to provide full body kinesthetic display functions to simulate locomotion for dismounted troops under virtual training/exercises scenarios.