UMSI Master's Thesis: Enabling Low-cost Co-located Virtual Reality Experiences

Abstract

In this thesis, we imagine virtual reality (VR) experiences in busy public spaces with co-located users through exploring pass-through camera interaction techniques and head mounted display (HMD) design concepts. Through our designs, we propose that allowing easier and faster visual access to real world information and views will foster an enhanced feeling of togetherness among participants and create less awkward co-located VR experiences. This thesis shares a selection of designs and prototypes aimed at solving some of the common challenges VR users in co-located and collaborative scenarios face. Our concepts are informed by a literature review of social and collaborative VR research and three motivational scenarios with prototypes. Our contribution with this work is to provide inspiration and discourse around common challenges with wearing HMD in public spaces with strangers, at home with family, or in a busy office with co-workers.