Virtual Reality noun: virtual reality

noun: virtual reality

1. 
   the computer-generated simulation of a three-dimensional image or environment that can be interacted with in a seemingly real or physical way by a person using special electronic equipment, such as a helmet with a screen inside or gloves fitted with sensors.
   

The oculus rift is a very good example of virtual reality. It uses a combination of motion, ir, gps and gyroscope sensors to deliver a fully immersive experience of vr. With this hardware you are able to achieve a real like experience within a simulated world. The experiences have ranged from things like roller coasters to walking round houses.

While the oculus may give a very good experience at the moment it still isn’t perfect. Input lag is a big issue with vr kits. Humans can detect around 15 milliseconds of lag and because of this the experience can be ruined if there is any more input lag than that.

Motion sickness is also a big issue with vr at the moment. The confusion that your brain gets when you combine visual movement with no physical movement makes your brain think that you are ill and causes you to feel ill/sick


Augmented reality

noun: augmented reality

1. 
   a technology that superimposes a computer-generated image on a user's view of the real world, thus providing a composite view.
   

The Microsoft hololens is a piece of hardware which allows augmented images and animations to be added to real life. Altered reality with these sorts of things can give a powerful impact for things relating to education or production tasks. One of the things the hololens featured was the ability to manipulate cad objects. This could, if executed correctly would enable highly productive environments for design