CS 4485 / Spring 2018Department of Computer ScienceErik Jonsson School of Engineering & Computer ScienceThe University of Texas at DallasRichardson, TX 75080, USA

Arnold Wey, axw140930@utdallas.edu; Eric Kanski, Emk150130@utdallas.edu; Luke Pettinger, Flp081000@utdallas.edu; Mickey Stewart, Mms140730@utdallas.edu; Nirmaan Bajpai, nxb140330@utdallas.edu

AbstractAvailable methods of moving within a game or application are unsatisfactory. An ideal method of locomotion would enable the user to maneuver naturally through virtual buildings, streets, or towns without hinderance. HoboLoco, inspired by the popular Hoverboard, provides the same maneuverability and extends the virtual world without walls, teleporting, or harnesses.

Simulation Results

SummaryThrough the process of working on the project, it has been proved that this newly invented mode of locomotion is entirely feasible. HoboLoco hoverboards will be a strong contender in the marketplace because it fills a void in the VR world. The future is prosperous and limitless for HoboLoco; it is a clever concept that will reach wide acceptance to a wide variety of consumers.

ImpactHoboLoco is a low cost, wirelessly enabled computer input device that is operated like a hoverboard. To guide an avatar or vehicle in Virtual Reality, the user stands on two foot pads and slightly flexes one or both feet. Sensors in the device communicate with the application through Bluetooth® enabling the user to navigate a virtual environment. HoboLoco is a “game changer” for Virtual Reality developers and users.

Architecture

Objective Performance Metrics Sensors – load cells integrated into Arduino and

reading correctly into Unity Bluetooth® – wireless module communicating

seamlessly with simulation Unity – a 3D VR demonstrating hoverboard controls Arduino – controller assembled using sensors,

potentiometers, Bluetooth®, and haptic feedback

Unity simulation showing a streetscape and an avatar navigating the virtual environment.

Prototype ResultsA standing protype consisting of foot pads and sensors.