Not all experiences are universally accessible, often hindered by factors such as financial constraints or physical limitations. Consider the exhilarating activity of parachuting – an experience that, for various reasons, might not be on everyone's bucket list. If, like me, you harbor a fear of heights, the thought of parachuting may seem daunting. To bridge this accessibility gap, our team undertook the creation of a Virtual Reality parachute simulator, aiming to democratize the experience and make it approachable for the average individual.
Through the immersive capabilities of Virtual Reality, we sought to provide a platform where users can engage with the thrill of parachuting without the constraints associated with the physical world. This simulator not only caters to those who may find real-life parachuting challenging but also extends the experience to a broader audience who may have financial limitations or other constraints.
Our Virtual Reality parachute simulator goes beyond a mere replication of the experience; it opens up new possibilities for individuals who may have otherwise never considered or had the opportunity to try parachuting. By leveraging the power of technology, we are breaking down barriers, making thrilling experiences like parachuting accessible to everyone, regardless of their physical or financial circumstances. Join us as we redefine accessibility in experiential realms and bring the joy of unique adventures to a wider audience.
OCULUS QUEST
PROBLEM STATEMENT
Not everybody has the ability to go parachuting:
-expensive
-stressful
-inaccessible
-financial or physical restrictions
HARDWARE
SkyFall is developed for the Oculus Quest. The Oculus Quest is a wireless virtual reality HMD(head mounted device) that does not need to be tethered to a PC and does not require any external sensors.
The hardware used for this project was carefully put together and tested in a lab before being used. The parts listed below are what it consisted of:
A: Curved Hanging Hammock C-Stand
B: Industrial Iron Stand
C: Hot-Melt Welded X-shaped Base
D: Anti-Corrosion Durable Structural
E: Anti-Corrosive Spring Hook
F: Anti-Corrosive Industrial Iron Chain
G: Anti-Corrosive Buckle
H: High viscosity silicone pads
I: KwikSafety Full Body Safety Harness
J: Comfort Shoulder Strap Pads
K: Freestep VR Cable Management System
L: Oculus Quest Controller
Please do not try this at home, and without the supervision of an expert
VIDEO DEMO
After the design process was complete, we tested the uses of our application in the real world through several studies exploring the use of Virtual Reality exposure therapy and how it can help people overcome certain phobias through cognitive behavior therapy and exposure to a virtual environment. We tested how altering environments in virtual spaces can affect sensorimotor cognition through SkyFall VR- a virtual reality parachuting application we designed and coded.
In conclusion, Skyfall, our Virtual Reality parachute simulator, embodies our commitment to making thrilling experiences accessible to all. We've used technology to address challenges like fear, financial constraints, and physical limitations, allowing Skyfall to go beyond the norm. This creative simulator not only welcomes those who might find real-life parachuting intimidating but also extends its reach to individuals dealing with financial constraints or other limitations.
Through the immersive power of Virtual Reality, Skyfall creates an inclusive space for everyone to enjoy the excitement of parachuting. As we reshape the accessibility landscape in experiential realms, our goal is to spread the joy of unique adventures to a wider audience. By removing barriers, Skyfall invites individuals from diverse backgrounds to partake in the exhilaration of thrilling pursuits. It stands not just as an application but as a catalyst, ensuring that everyone, regardless of circumstance, can embark on the adventure of a lifetime.
TEAM
Linda Kirova
Patrick Molen
Bingyu Li