Gait Master: a versatile locomotion interface for uneven virtual terrain

The Gait Master is a locomotion interface that creates a sense of walking on an uneven surface. The device employs a turntable on which two motion platforms (one for each foot) are mounted. The motion platforms track the feet and carry them back to their neutral position. The user can physically walk in a virtual space while their position is maintained. The motion platforms move vertically, which simulates an uneven surface. The walker can climb up or go down a virtual staircase while their position is maintained. The turntable rotates the two motion platforms, so that the walker can walk in any direction. We have developed two prototypes and have evaluated them through user studies.