Using artificial intelligence to bring accurate real-time simulation to virtual reality

Abstract

There always has been an excruciating gap between theoretical possibilities, clinical trial and real world applications in the Medical Industry. Any new research, experimentation or training in this sector has always been subject to extreme scrutiny and legal intricacies, due to the complexity of the human body and any resulting complications that might arise from the application of prematurely tested techniques or tools. The introduction of Virtual Reality in the Medical Industry is bringing all these troubles to their heel. Simulations generated by virtual reality are currently being explored to impart education and practical medical experience to students and doctors alike, generate engaging environments for patients and thus assisting in various aspects ranging from treatment of medical conditions to rehabilitation. This book chapter aims to develop an understanding on how virtual reality is being applied in the healthcare industry. A formal study of various solutions for reducing the latency is presented along with research being done in the area for improving the performance and making the experience more immersive. It is evident that motion to photons latency plays a crucial role in determining a genuine virtual reality experience. Among many, foveated rendering and gaze tracking systems seem to be the most promising in creating exciting opportunities for virtual reality systems in the future.