Environmental Engineering Reference
In-Depth Information
Fig. 2. A binocular omni-orientation monitor (BOOM)
4.2.3 Visual Display Unit (VDU) or monitors
There are two types of computer visual display unit. The CRT monitors and the LCD
monitors. The distinguishing characteristics of the two types are beyond the scope of this
piece.
4.3 Process acceleration cards
Process acceleration card is an expansion card whose function is to generate output images to
a display. Most video cards offer added functions, such as accelerated rendering of 3D scenes
and 2D graphics, video capture, TV-tuner adapter, MPEG-2/MPEG-4 decoding, FireWire,
light pen, TV output, or the ability to connect multiple monitors (multi-monitor). These cards
help to update the display with new sensory information. Examples are 3D graphic cards and
3D sound cards. Other modern high performance video cards are used for more graphically
demanding purposes, such as PC games (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Video_card).
Examples are 3D Nvidia Video Card and 3D ATI Video Card
4.4 Tracking system
This system tracks the position and orientation of a user in the virtual environment. The
purpose of a tracking device is to determine the x, y, and z position, and the orientation (yaw,
pitch, and roll) of some part of the user's body in reference to a fixed point. Most types of
virtual reality interaction devices have a tracker on them. HMDs need a tracker so that the
view can be updated for the current orientation of the user's head. Datagloves and flying
joysticks usually have trackers so that the virtual “hand” icon will follow the position and
orientation changes of the user's real hand. Full body datasuits will have several trackers on
them so that virtual feet, waist, hands, and head are all slaved to the human user. This system
is divided into: mechanical, electromagnetic, ultrasonic, infrared and inertial trackers.
