Virtual reality (VR) locomotion controller 3dRudder has released a new update that brings support for control of web pages by means of a users foot control.
This new control scheme is possible thanks to the new 3dRudder WebSocket server. By opening a constant communication flow between a users web browser and the 3dRudder, a real-time foot-based interaction control scheme can be achieved.
The new 3dRudder WebSocket server can be called from any web page to let users interact with apps and content in the page all with their feet. This allows new ways for users to engage with content all thanks to the integrated solution that 3dRudder providers. The released Chrome extension acts as an example by allowing users to control video playback with their feet on websites such as YouTube, Daily Motion, Vimeo, Amazon Prime Video, Twitch and many others.
This new application for the 3dRudder opens up the doors to many new exciting possibilities. Some of the examples that 3dRudder suggest include the creation and manipulation of 3D objects in cloud-based applications for CAD design. Educational providers could take advantage of this new integration as well to make web-based learning more engaging. Of course, playing online videogames and web-based VR applications would also be a suitable and ideal use.
3dRudder currently allows users to take advantage of its locomotion system to allow for a more natural sense of travel within virtual space. As only the feet need to be used it means that hands become free to preform additional actions and helps to reduce control clutter that might lead to confusion. 3dRudder also removes the limits of physical space meaning there is no need to worry about walking into your surroundings as you remain seated, but have the feeling of free movement.
3dRudder was announced back in 2015 with a release a few months later in mid-2016. Since then a a wireless version was revealed at CES 2017 and just last month a price cut was announced as well, bringing the price down to $99 (USD). With the newly released 3dRudder WebSocket server the future of 3dRudder and web-based controls looks promising.
For more on 3dRudder in the future, keep reading VRFocus.