Underwater Virtual Reality

A new virtual reality diving mask is letting divers do things they never dreamed possible. The Fraunhofer Institute for Applied Information Technology (FIT) just unveiled it's virtual reality system for underwater use. They're calling it the Augmented Reality System, due to it's ability to improve upon the diver's experience. The mask has a special waterproof display, which allows divers to see their surroundings plus anything marked by the computer in a virtual overlay.

The project is still in development and they're now testing a prototype of the program. The prototype is a virtual game, which allows divers to get used to the addition of the extra equipment. When equipped, the mask can turn a regular backyard pool into a vast oceanic environment, teeming with mussels, seaweed, and shoals. The possibility of the Augmented Reality System being used for professional diving is still being researched, but officials say it shows promise. It may also be used purely for enjoyment. Our modern waterparks would do well for themselves to adapt this technology and allow park goers to pursue an underwater discovery.

Virtual reality research has existed for years, but hasn't made significant progress due to lack of funding and interest up until recently. In the last few years many land based applications have been developed, but FIT has served as the pioneer of aquatic virtual reality technology. Fully submersible technology is extremely hard to develop, and even harder to apply. Computer systems are extremely finicky, and must be as durable as possible while still maintaining their lightweight attributes - especially on the mask of a diver. In addition, they must be able to withstand extreme amounts of pressure due to the depth they're exposed to.

The essential component of the module is it's waterproof display, positioned directly in front of the diver's mask. Everything is the same, but there are superimposed virtual objects available for the divers use. Sometimes these displays are number in order to guide the diver or craft a path. The virtual objects are generated and sent to the display by a tiny camera on the divers helmet powered by an ultra advanced computer contained in the diver's backpack.

Though the technology is in it's infancy, it marks a huge milestone for the virtual reality focused community. Just as Magellan took navigation to a whole new plane, FIT's Augmented Reality system will without a doubt, bring us into the next frontier of underwater exploration.

Source:

http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2009/03/090317095028.htm