VRX News, Varjo Workspace, Writing in Mixed Reality

On the VRX Exhibit Floor

Last week San Francisco hosted the VRX Conference, one of the growing number of events focusing on the use of AR and VR. VRX is a Reuters Event, with panel discussions, presentations, and an exhibit floor.

Sixense, a training app provider, showcased its vehicle spray painting simulator. The use of replica equipment, such as the spray paint can, plays a critical role in building muscle memory with VR training.

LOOXID, another exhibitor, demonstrated its brainwave monitoring technology. With its add on attached to the AR-VR head mounted display (HMD), you can monitor the user’s brain wave. Combined with the eye tracking, you can tell, for example, where in a virtual car the user is looking at when he or she shows signs of interest. This feature could be important as more car makers and retailers are now seeking early feedback using virtual showrooms.

Dimenco showed off its widescreen 8K monitor with 3D effects (stereoscopic). This works by analyzing your eye position with a mounted camera and transmitting two images to create left- and right-eye views, creating the illusion of depth and mass. The display is meant for a single user. If multiple users crowd around the monitor, everyone will not perceive the effect. The effect is active only within the optimal viewing zone.

Redefining Interaction in Mixed Reality

Holo-Light showed how you might scribble notes or sketch in AR using its pen-like device, Holo-Stylus. Logitech, the company that makes mice, webcam, and other peripherals, also has a similar stylus, called VR Ink Pilot Edition.

TGO, a London-based startup, demonstrated its grip controllers that can replicate hand movements inside AR-VR applications. The controller’s track surface can detect skin contact and motion; therefore, your closed fists, open hands, and finger positions can be translated into VR. It can also simulate sensation in the form of vibration to add a layer of realism to AR-VR entertainment and training apps.

Varjo's VR Workspace

Last week, the mixed reality systems developer Varjo announced its VR Workspace, a customizable virtual space with a library of furniture you can drag and drop. You may also import Windows applications, such as your browser, Office programs, or 3D CAD programs, into the environment. The virtual workspace supports LogiTech’s VR Ink stylus, so you can write or draw within.

This workspace runs inside Varjo’s latest hardware, XR-1.