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Project T(ether) creates virtual workspace using mo-cap technology

Project T(ether) creates virtual workspace using mo-cap technology

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Using motion capture technology, Project T(ether) allows multiple users to work in a virtual environment for object creation and animation.

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mit project tether glove 1200
mit project tether glove 1200

We've seen three dimensional virtual workspaces before, but Project T(ether) is one iteration that has actual potential to be applied in the real world. Created by the Tangible Media Group at MIT, Project T(ether) utilizes an iPad and motion capture technology to produce a virtual environment for object creation and animation. The rectangle attachments found on the gloves and iPad are tracked by Vicon motion capture cameras — the same used by companies like Industrial Light & Magic for CG animation — to enable object and visual perspective manipulation in real-time. The 1:1 mapping is achieved with the help a server that transfers the data captured by the cameras to one or more spatial displays. A consumer-level version of Project T(ether) is likely a pipe dream, but its potential as a tool for 3D animators seems like a no-brainer.