Utilization and Evaluation of a Pneumatic Cylinder-Based Acceleration Device for Long-Distance Ascent Sensation Presentation in Virtual Reality Environments

Using a head-mounted displays (HMDs) and an acceleration device to present the sensation of ascent in a virtual reality (VR) environment offers various advantages, such as enhancing immersion and aiding in the treatment of acrophobia. However, existing studies have primarily used large-scale ascent sensation presentation devices, as smaller devices face limitations in the achievable ascent distance in VR. In this study, a shoe-type acceleration device developed in previous research was utilized to examine the presentation of long-distance ascent sensations. This study demonstrated that combining the device with VR visuals was more effective in presenting ascent sensations compared with using VR visuals alone. Furthermore, in environments where the operational range of devices, such as shoe-type devices, was limited, increasing the ascending speed was found to be desirable. However, discrepancies between the VR visuals and operation time of the device were identified as a challenge in presenting long-distance ascent sensations. Additionally, although increasing the initial velocity of the VR visuals enhanced the perception of ascent, a better ascent experience required more than simply synchronizing the movement of the device with the VR visuals. The appropriate handling of the VR visuals after the operation of the device ended was crucial. The findings of this study clarify key challenges for future research on presenting ascent sensations using small wearable devices.