The 3 Types of Virtual Reality (VR) you Need to know

VR provides an immersive experience that can transport users to different environments, whether it's a game, a virtual tour of a city, or a simulation of a surgical procedure.

This can be a powerful tool for surgical education and training.

What is Virtual Reality?

Virtual reality (VR) is a computer-generated simulation of a three-dimensional environment that can be experienced through a VR headset and motion sensors.

Unlike augmented reality, virtual reality creates entirely virtual reality and immerses its user in a reality built by a computer that does not necessarily have a relationship with the real world.

What are the 4 Elements of Virtual Reality?

Virtual reality usually has these 4 elements or characteristics:

• Believable virtual world: VR uses computer technology to simulate the real world

• Immersion: with the help of VR headsets and spatial audio, the user can experience full immersion in the virtual-generated world

• Sensory feedback: as the user moves his head around, what he sees changes as well

• Interactivity: the user can interact with different objects in the virtual scene

The 3 Types of Virtual Reality:

1. Non-immersive virtual reality: This is the simplest and most basic type of VR experience. Provide a computer-generated environment, where the user doesn't lose contact with the real physical world, for example, video games.

2. Semi-immersive virtual reality: Provides a different environment through 3D graphics, while the user remains in contact with the physical world, for example, example piloting simulation.

3. Fully immersive virtual reality: Provides a realistic simulation environment (sight and sound), where the user loses contact with the physical world, using a VR headset.

How does virtual reality work?

VR is a computer-generated environment with 3D images, scenes, and objects. This environment is perceived through a VR headset.

VR uses a headset to block out the user's surrounding physical environment and replace it with a dynamic and adaptive 3D environment.

This simulated environment appears to be real and gives a sense of immersion more than is experienced through a flat screen.

The user can explore, move, and interact with tactile and sensory feedback by wearing a visor or haptic gloves.

Virtual reality headsets project 3D virtual content created by software into the user's field of view. This virtual content is simulating a real or fictional environment.

Virtual reality is important because it provides immersive experiences, enhances learning, and offers cost-effective training.