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64.1: Display Technologies for Therapeutic Applications of Virtual Reality
Hunter G Hoffman1, Brian T Schowengerdt1, Cameron M Lee1
1Human Photonics Laboratory and Human Interface Technology Lab Dept. of Mechanical Engineering, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA.
Digest of Technical Papers. SID International Symposium
|July 7, 2015
Summary
Scanning fiber displays offer a breakthrough for virtual reality (VR) goggles, creating lightweight, safe, and cost-effective devices. These advanced VR goggles are ideal for pain reduction in severe burn wound care and potentially in military settings.
Area of Science:
- Optics and Photonics
- Medical Technology
- Virtual Reality
Background:
- Current virtual reality (VR) helmets often utilize liquid-crystal displays (LCDs), which can be heavy, costly, and have limitations in field of view.
- There is a growing need for improved imaging technologies in VR for specialized applications, including healthcare and remote environments.
Purpose of the Study:
- To introduce scanning fiber displays (SFDs) as a novel image source technology for VR helmets.
- To highlight the potential benefits of SFDs in creating advanced VR goggles for specific medical and military applications.
Main Methods:
- The study proposes replacing traditional LCD displays in VR helmets with SFD technology.
- SFDs leverage scanning fiber optics to generate images, offering a different approach to VR display design.
Main Results:
- SFDs enable the creation of VR goggles that are significantly lightweight, safe, and low-cost.
- This technology facilitates a wide field of view and portability, crucial for user comfort and application.
Conclusions:
- Scanning fiber displays represent a paradigm shift in VR helmet image source technology.
- The developed VR goggles are particularly suitable for pain management in severe burn wound care and could be valuable in austere combat environments.
