Disney HoloTile: the world's first omnidirectional floor for multi-user VR experiences (video)
Disney engineer invents a way to avoid falling and hitting the wall while using VR
HoloTile is a modular, expandable running floor that enables a multi-person virtual reality experience. Its unique design and functionality allow any number of people to share a virtual space and interact with each other, while moving freely and without restriction. Gone are the days of being confined by physical boundaries - HoloTile gives users the ability to explore and interact with virtual worlds in ways that were previously thought impossible.
The development was created by Disney researcher Lanny Smoot. His technology has paved the way for unprecedented immersive virtual reality (VR) experiences. Thanks to HoloTile, people can explore virtual environments, walk unlimited distances in any direction, without fear of collisions or slipping off the surface. This innovative development is not only changing the way people enjoy virtual reality, but also opening up new opportunities for the entertainment industry.
But HoloTile is not limited to personal use. Its versatility extends to the theatre stage, where performers can use the technology in their performances. Dancers and actors can now showcase their skills with unprecedented freedom of movement, while stage props and structures can move and transform seamlessly on their own. The possibilities for creative expression and storytelling with HoloTile are endless.
Lenny Smoot's distinguished career has been characterised by pushing the boundaries of technology, and HoloTile is undoubtedly one of his greatest achievements. As Disney's most prolific inventor, Smoot's passion for artistic ingenuity, technical expertise and boundless imagination shines through in this cutting-edge creation. HoloTile is set to revolutionise the virtual reality industry and redefine the way we think about virtual environments.
Prior to HoloTile, Smoot was the author of numerous groundbreaking innovations. From enabling Madame Leota to "float" in the séance room in The Haunted Mansion to developing the state-of-the-art retractable lightsaber used by Disney Live Entertainment, Smoot's contributions have consistently fascinated and delighted audiences.
Not surprisingly, Lenny Smoot has received numerous awards and honours throughout his career. His work on such attractions as Voyage of the Submarine Discovery and Kim Potential: World Showcase Adventure" has earned him three Thea Awards from The Themed Entertainment Association (TEA). In 2020, Smoot was also awarded the prestigious TEA Master title, recognising his expertise in theatre technology.
Source: Disney
