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Computer Science - Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR)
I. Introduction
V. XR Development
I. Introduction
- VR and AR are technologies that change how we interact with computers.
- XR is a general term referring to VR and AR technologies.
- Definition: Immerses the user in a 3D virtual space, usually with a headset.
- Interaction: Users interact with virtual objects using:
- Gaze
- Voice commands
- Handheld controllers
- History:
- Attempts have been made for decades, but became mainstream in the 2010s.
- Google Cardboard (2014): Popularized VR due to its low cost and accessibility.
- Concept: Headset made from cardboard, lenses, and a smartphone.
- How it Works:
- Apps render content for each eye on separate halves of the smartphone screen.
- Uses the smartphone's gyroscope to track head movement.
- 3 Degrees of Freedom (3DoF):
- Tracks head movement (looking around).
- Cannot track physical movement in space (moving around).
- Supports basic one-button input.
- Impact: Introduced VR to a wide audience.
- 3DoF: Tracks rotational movement (looking around).
- 6 Degrees of Freedom (6DoF): Tracks both rotational and positional movement (moving around in space).
- More immersive experience.
- VR headsets and controllers can have either 3DoF or 6DoF.
- 6DoF controllers enable natural interactions in VR.
- Smartphone-based: (Samsung Gear VR, Google Daydream)
- PC-connected: (Oculus Rift, HTC Vive, Windows Mixed Reality)
- Provide the highest graphical fidelity.
- Most expensive due to the cost of the PC.
- Standalone: (Oculus Go, Oculus Quest, Lenovo Mirage Solo)
- Do not require a smartphone or PC.
- Definition: Overlays virtual elements onto the real world.
- Implementation:
- Mobile Devices: Uses the rear-facing camera to observe the real world and overlays virtual elements.
- Dedicated Devices: (Google Glass, Magic Leap, Microsoft HoloLens) Worn on the head and superimpose computer-generated graphics.
- Advanced AR: Software understands physical elements, allowing virtual elements to interact with the environment.
- Interaction: Users interact using voice commands or hand tracking.
V. XR Development
- Platforms: VR and AR technologies are platforms for software developers.
- Game Engines: Many VR developers use game engines like Unity and Unreal.
- Familiar to game developers.
- Facilitate building software for multiple VR platforms.
- Web Development: WebVR and WebXR (JavaScript APIs)
- WebVR: Focused on VR specifically (older).
- WebXR: Supports both AR and VR (newer).
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