Low-cost DIY 16 Directions of Movement Walk-in -Place Interface for VR Applications

Abstract

Traditional virtual reality (VR) locomotion systems often rely on costly treadmills or sophisticated motion capture technologies, limiting accessibility for broader audiences. This study introduces a highly affordable do-it-yourself walk-in-place interface for VR applications. The proposed interface is built using widely available materials, such as cardboard and aluminum foil, integrated with touch sensors and Bluetooth communication. The interface supports 16 directions of movement and can be constructed for approximately $50. This study demonstrates the potential of budgetfriendly solutions to enhance VR. The proposed approach broadens access to immersive VR experiences and bridges the gap between functionality and affordability of VR systems.