British researchers have developed a device to help computer users move more easily through computer simulations or virtual reality. It is a three-dimensional variation on the familiar computer mouse used to move a cursor around the screen. They called it, of course, the bat.
Developed by Allan Davison and Mel Slater, computer scientists from Queen Mary and Westfield College, University of London, the bat allows a user to fly easily around a simulated 3-D space. It replaces the so-called dataglove that is normally required for moving in virtual reality. Sensors in the glove detect movements of the hand and mimic them on screen, but this can necessitate awkward and tiring gesticulations.
A normal computer mouse contains a rolling ball which protrudes underneath and a sensor to detect the ball's movements. Move the mouse around on a tabletop and its motion is translated into movement of the cursor on the screen. ...
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