Infinadeck Omnidirectional Treadmill Offers Limitless Locomotion in Virtual Environments

Infinadeck is a patented omnidirectional treadmill that delivers a superior experience of moving through virtual worlds.

Infinadeck, the world's first commercially viable omnidirectional treadmill, allows users to naturally walk or run through virtual environments. The patented treadmill can be used with a VR headset to create an unprecedented locomotion experience in VR, enabling users to walk through immersive virtual worlds as they would normally walk in the real world. The improved version of the treadmill had its debut at the 2016 Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas in January.

Infinadeck allows users to walk in any direction (360 degrees) at a speed of up to 6 mph. Equipped with sensors, the platform reacts to different parameters of the user's movement, including direction and speed, to ensure that they stay at the centre and that they are safe at all times. The platform takes up relatively little space, only 1.7 x 1.6m (5.6 x 5.3ft) and stands only 0.4m (16 in) off the ground. At about 70 decibels, it does not make more noise than a dishwasher.

The treadmill is powered by two motors: one that moves the platform like a regular treadmill and another that moves the belt in the perpendicular direction. As a result, users can walk forward, sideways and diagonally on the platform. They can also safely jump and crouch, as Infinadeck uses a support system that straps around their waist and keeps them secured.

Infinadeck has an infinite number of possible applications in VR as it allows for limitless movement in virtual environments. Potential markets for the treadmill include education, physical therapy, fitness, military and industrial training, and architectural walk-throughs. The treadmill is the ultimate peripheral for active gaming, as it offers a variety of options for games that require players to use their bodies to control different elements or those that challenge players' speed and reaction time.

In physical therapy, Infinadeck can lead to improved outcomes in balance training for patients recovering after a stroke, and better performance in obstacle crossing and dynamic balance in patients with Parkinson's disease. Watch the video below to learn more about the platform.