ShoeSoleSense: demonstrating a wearable foot interface for locomotion in virtual environments

User input in a virtual environment (VE) is usually accomplished through simple finger interactions, such as walking in a 3D scene by pressing a button. These interactions are not very suitable for movement in VE. Moving through scenes such as a safety training applications by walking-in-place while forgoing hand or finger input for other purposes enables a more realistic feeling. Already existing solutions, such as multi-directional treadmills, are still expensive and need additional fixation of the body. Others, like using external tracking that are usually accomplished by using statically installed cameras in CAVE-like-installations, also have limitations in terms of occlusion. The built prototype - an insole Directly measures the pressure under the feet and hence enables a detection of movements, which is wirelessly forwarded to the scene manager server.