A multifocal virtual reality (VR) helmet that allows simulating a spacewalk has been developed in Russia. This was announced by Mikhail Lavrentiev, Deputy Director of the Institute of Automation and Electrometry (IAiE) SB RAS.
Where can the new helmet be used:
- training of astronauts and submariners
- remote control of robotic manipulators on the Moon
Lavrentiev explained that humans have 2 mechanisms for determining the distance to an object: binocular and accommodative.
When you put on regular virtual glasses and try to look at an object that is close, these two mechanisms come into conflict.
The development of scientists from Akademgorodok is a multifocal sample (has several optical centers for image correction) that eliminates visual dissonance. Thanks to this, astronauts will be able to perform their tasks with high accuracy.
The new type of multifocal helmets significantly reduces the representation error.
Employees of Softlab-nsk LLC and the Design and Technological Institute (KTI) of Scientific Instrument Engineering SB RAS took part in the creation of the helmet. The developers are confident that their product has great practical potential.
