Low-Cost, Portable, Multi-Wall Virtual Reality

Abstract

Virtual reality systems make compelling outreach displays, but some systems highly suitable for outreach, notably the CAVE, have design features that make using them for that purpose inconvenient. In the case of the CAVE, the equipment is difficult to disassemble, transport, and reassemble, and typically only large-budget research facilities can afford such a system. We implemented a system like the CAVE that costs less than $30,000, weighs about 500 pounds, and fits into a fifteen-passenger van. A team of six people have unpacked, assembled, and calibrated the system in less than two hours. This cost reduction versus similar virtual reality systems stems from the unique approach we took to stereoscopic projection. We used an assembly of optical chopper wheels and commodity LCD projectors to create true active stereo at less than a fifth of the cost of comparable active stereo technologies. The screen and frame design also harbor portability optimizations; the frame assembles in minutes with only two fasteners, and both pack into small bundles for easy and secure shipment.