The world of virtual reality (VR) technology has come a long way since its inception, with many innovations and breakthroughs over the years. However, one question that has been debated among VR enthusiasts is who created the first virtual reality headset. In this article, we will delve into the history of VR and explore the various individuals and companies that have contributed to its development, ultimately leading us to the answer of who created the first virtual reality headset.
The Beginnings of Virtual Reality:
Virtual reality technology can be traced back to the 1960s, when researchers at the University of Utah first developed a prototype VR system called the Sword of Damocles. This early version consisted of a large, clunky headset that was suspended above the user and displayed a black-and-white image on a small screen. Despite its limitations, the Sword of Damocles marked the beginning of virtual reality technology and paved the way for further advancements.
The Birth of the Head-Mounted Display:
One of the key components of a VR headset is the head-mounted display (HMD), which projects an image directly into the user’s field of vision. The concept of using an HMD in VR can be traced back to 1968, when Ivan Sutherland developed the first interactive computer graphics program called Sketchpad. This program allowed users to manipulate virtual objects on a screen using a light pen, and was later adapted into a head-mounted display for a more immersive experience.
The First Virtual Reality Headset:
While there have been many contributions to the development of VR technology over the years, it is generally agreed upon that the first true virtual reality headset was created by Jaron Lanier in 1985. Lanier’s headset, called the EyePhone, used a modified pair of binoculars as an HMD and projected images onto two small screens mounted inside. The EyePhone was primarily used for research purposes and was not commercially available to the public.
The Development of Modern VR Headsets:
Since Lanier’s creation of the EyePhone, there have been numerous advancements in virtual reality technology, including the development of more sophisticated HMDs. In 1992, the Virtual Reality Medical Center (VRMC) created a headset called the VR head, which was used for medical training and research. This device used a pair of stereoscopic displays to create a more immersive experience for users.
In 1996, the first commercially available virtual reality headset, the NVidia Virtual Reality Headset, was released. This device featured a large screen that displayed stereoscopic images and was controlled by a handheld controller. However, it was not until the release of the Oculus Rift in 2012 that VR technology really took off. The Oculus Rift featured a high-resolution display, advanced tracking technology, and a large library of games and applications, making it an instant hit among early adopters.
Summary:
In conclusion, while there have been many individuals and companies that have contributed to the development of virtual reality technology over the years, Jaron Lanier is generally considered to be the creator of the first virtual reality headset in 1985. Since then, advancements in VR technology have led to the creation of more sophisticated HMDs, which have opened up new possibilities for immersive gaming, training, and research applications. Today, virtual reality technology continues to evolve at a rapid pace, with new innovations and breakthroughs on the horizon.