Disney Research has unveiled a new Microsoft Kinect accessory called Aireal, which has been created to provide users with force feedback in the form of a focused blast of air.
The Aireal Kinect device is currently still in the early stages of development but has been designed to provide Kinect players with a real sense of being involved in the game they are playing. This innovative technology aims to bridge the gap between virtual and physical experiences, making gaming more immersive than ever before. Watch the video after the jump to learn more about the Aireal project and see it in action.
How Aireal Works
The Aireal canon tracks the player as they play games using the Kinect system and synchronizes with their gameplay. Disney Research describes the system as creating “interactive tactile experiences in free air.” Essentially, Aireal uses puffs of air to simulate physical sensations, such as the feeling of wind or the impact of an object, enhancing the overall gaming experience. This is achieved through a combination of precise air control and advanced tracking algorithms that ensure the air blasts are accurately timed and directed.
Aireal will be demonstrated at this year’s SIGGRAPH 2013 conference, along with other projects seen in the above video. This conference is a significant event in the computer graphics and interactive techniques industry, making it the perfect platform for showcasing such groundbreaking technology.
Potential Applications and Future Prospects
While Aireal is currently focused on enhancing gaming experiences, its potential applications extend far beyond just gaming. For instance, it could be used in virtual reality (VR) environments to provide more realistic and immersive experiences. Imagine feeling the breeze as you walk through a virtual forest or the rush of air as you soar through the skies in a flight simulator. The possibilities are endless.
Moreover, Aireal could find applications in educational tools, where tactile feedback can enhance learning experiences. For example, students could feel the texture of different materials in a virtual science lab or experience historical events more vividly through tactile simulations.
Unfortunately, no information on pricing or even whether Aireal will make it to market is available as yet. However, the interest and excitement surrounding this technology suggest that it has a promising future. As soon as more information comes to light, we will keep you updated as always.
The development of Aireal is a testament to the continuous innovation in the field of interactive technology. By adding a tactile dimension to virtual experiences, Aireal has the potential to revolutionize not just gaming, but various other fields as well. As we await further developments and potential market release, the anticipation for Aireal’s impact continues to grow.
Source: Slashgear : Geek : ExtremeTech
Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals
Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.
