Locomotion adaptations improve balance during VR movement changes
Preliminary Evaluation of Transition-Aware Controller Locomotion Adaptations for Supporting Postural Stability in VR
Human-Computer Interaction
Summary
Moving in virtual reality can sometimes make people feel unstable or off balance when they start walking, turn, or stop suddenly. The authors tested three techniques that gently change how fast users move or turn during these moments to help them stay steady. Their early tests showed these methods helped users keep better balance and feel more confident while navigating. This could make VR experiences safer and more comfortable for people.
What this means in practice
- •For vr game developers: Enhance player balance and comfort by integrating adaptive speed and turn smoothing during movement transitions.$Commercial implications: Allows creation of VR games that reduce motion discomfort and improve user navigation safety, appealing to broader audiences.
- •For physical therapy clinics: Use adaptive VR locomotion to support patients’ postural control during balance training exercises.
Authors
Ramisa Fariha Joyee, M. Rasel Mahmud
Abstract
We present three locomotion adaptation approaches: Motion Acceleration, Turn Acceleration, and Motion Deceleration to improve postural stability during body-state transitions in virtual reality (VR). The system detects standing-to-walking, turning, and walking-to-stopping transitions and applies adaptive locomotion smoothing. Motion Acceleration gradually increases locomotion speed when users begin walking, Turn Acceleration smooths rotation while turning, and Motion Deceleration gradually reduces movement speed before stopping. We evaluated these techniques in a virtual navigation task using objective and subjective balance measures. Preliminary results show reduced center of pressure (COP) velocity and improved balance confidence. These findings suggest that locomotion adaptations can improve balance and navigation experience.