Virtual Reality: Not just for Gaming

Virtual reality (VR) is slowly taking over the gaming industry with companies such as Facebook, Microsoft, and Sony dabbling in the world of VR headsets. It has also opened itself up to other forms of entertainment with virtual home theaters and virtual stadiums for sports fans. But now, virtual reality technology is influencing how we help heal and aid the sick, acquire knowledge, explore new wonders of our galaxy, and experience new heights that some could never have imagined.

Health Care and Mental Health

According to Livescience, software companies such as Surgical Theatre and Conquer Mobile have developed virtual reality simulations to construct 3D models of a patient’s body to help doctors examine and find the best surgical options.

Virtual Reality tools have also tapped into the rehabilitation sector. The inventors of MindMazeto created an interactive therapy for patients with more severe physical and mental injuries. These patients can receive treatment by playing VR games. MindMazeto claims this therapy has helped patients recover much faster than traditional rehabilitation methods.

Beyond health care, Guided Meditation and Facebook’s Oculus Rift headsets allow consumers to relax in a peaceful environment and escape from the anxieties of everyday life. A study by the American Psychological Association suggests that virtual reality can be a great tool for those with more painful mental traumas including PTSD and panic disorders. It can provide a safe and controlled environment where patients can tackle their fears.

Space

Scientists and astronauts at the Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) are also using the Oculus Rift, along with video game consoles, to control robots. NASA claims this new technology will be a much better way for scientists to see a robot’s environment and control the situation while the robot is on another planet. To see how it works, take a look here:

Automotive

Ford Motor Company’s Immersion Lab in Dearborn, Michigan is using virtual reality headsets to inspect over 135,000 interior and exterior details of new car models. From examining patterns on a car seat to looking more closely at rotating parts in an engine, designers and engineers can see 3D images to assess issues before constructing the latest vehicle model. Elizabeth Baron, Ford’s virtual reality and advanced technical specialist, stated “With this technology, designers and engineers can enhance their ability to achieve that goal—while also improving vehicle quality.”

Ford isn’t the only car company jumping on the virtual reality bandwagon. Toyota is partnering with Oculus Rift for their TeenDrive365 program. They want to give users a life-like experience to show “parents and teens how everyday distractions can affect their ability to drive safely,” said Marjorie Schussel, Toyota’s Corporate Marketing Director. To get an idea, take a look here:

Military

Beyond the automotive industry, military recruiters are taking advantage of video game simulation for instructive purposes. The U.S. Military has been implementing reality-based video games to use as training exercises for new soldiers. According to Albert Rizzo, a University of Southern California psychologist, preparing a mind for war is a difficult task and using visual simulations could help protect and prepare soldiers when going into combat.

Courtroom

According to New Scientist, new phases and implementation of virtual reality technology in the courtroom could soon give jurors the ability to see 3D visualizations of crime scenes. Forensic researchers state this advancement in the courtroom could be helpful to jury member’s conceptualizing a case and making a more informed decision. As an example, the University of Zurich in 2014 used virtual reality to reenact a shooting that took place and used it in the trial:

Museums

Museums across the globe are starting to create virtual reality spaces for audiences to tour antique collections from different countries. Institutions like the British Museum in London worked with developers to launch their first virtual-reality weekend to enhance the interaction with spectators. Google and YouTube have also been working together on improving their 360-degree videos by adding live streams. A report by Buzzfeed stated that YouTube is in the stages of developing a platform for broadcasting high quality live feeds of 360-degree videos for global audiences.

Shopping

The fashion industry has definitely taken the virtual reality user experience into consideration. ASOS, Europe’s biggest online retailer, is working to create an app with Trillenium that could take online shopping to a whole new level. Trillenium Founder and CEO Hrvoje Prpic expects that this application would allow shoppers to browse the store, look at products, and even hangout with friends with new virtual reality “shopping spectacles” without actually being inside the store.

What was once a pipe dream for Matrix super-fans is becoming something that we all can enjoy throughout our everyday lives. This new-age technology could even evolve the way we communicate and interact with each other. From talking with people in another language across continents to exploring the depths of our universe, the future of virtual reality is limitless.