An Architectural Approach to Virtual Reality Locomotion

This project investigates how Virtual Reality (VR) and generative architecture can, together, lead to the design and development of novel locomotion methods. Specifically, we aim to develop algorithmical solutions that allow users of Virtual Environments (VEs) to explore the virtual space by natural locomotion without resorting to “supernatural” locomotion methods. We propose to enable natural locomotion through an architectural approach, to spatially transform a virtual environment in response to the movement of the user to create spaces that are not only functional but pleasant to inhabit. 

We thus propose a novel class of redirection methods – ‘overt’ architectural manipulations, by which we refer to dynamically changing architectural features in the VE depending on the user’s intended physical trajectory and the constraints that limit it. We will implement these architectural transformations by developing a
technological framework based on adjacency networks. We aim to procedurally generate the architecture and appearance of a VE, beginning with automatic floor plan generation and later making the algorithm dynamic through an iterative design process. We will evaluate our technological framework across a series of use-cases of increasing spatial complexity, from two contrasting modes of scientific inquiry: the experimental studies in Computer Science with the more phenomenological experience of space from Architectural Design Science.