Tele-Nursing: Wheelchair Navigation with Realistic Sensations using Locomotion Interface

摘要

The authors have been conducting research into new methods of communication via virtual space created by VR (Virtual Reality) technologies, including communication teleconferencing systems with realistic sensations. In addition, the authors have proposed "Tel-E-Merge" - a system in which the user can enter the environment of another person in a remote location to carry on a conversation - and are conducting research into new VR equipment aimed at the practical application of this system. This paper describes one application for making this system a reality: a "Tele-Nursing" system that combines locomotion interfaces we have developed with wheelchair-type moving equipment. This application was created from the viewpoint of communications that allow both shared experiences and shared emotions using VR technologies.