Robotic boots for safe movement in virtual reality invented

Ekto VR has unveiled a prototype of a robotic shoe that allows the user to move in virtual reality while remaining in place in the physical world.

According to the developers, Ecto One bootsare quite lightweight as they are made of carbon fiber and allow for safe walking in VR without wearing harnesses. At the bottom they have two rotating plates that respond to data from motion sensors and move the foot back when walking, creating a feeling of movement while actually marking time. Whenthe user stands still  The device uses a brake to prevent slipping.

Although the Half-Life demo video showsobvious shortcomings of the existing prototype. The VR gear set with boots becomes even more cumbersome, which can make users feel uncomfortable. In addition, in order to avoid falling, the movements must be slow and careful, which does not go well with the instantaneous reactions of the players to various virtual events.

Therefore, the EktoVR team continuesimprove its development and plans to enter the market only in 2-4 years. While boots are not ideal, they can significantly improve the safety of moving around in a virtual world, at least until such equipment is replaced by interfaces that connect the brain directly to a computer.

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