MetaTracker: Unifying and Abstracting 3-D Motion Tracking Data from Multiple Heterogenous Hardware Systems

Abstract

3-D motion tracking is a fundamental technology enabling virtual reality and mixed reality. Correct position and orientation detection are critical as both an input for 3-D interaction and for proper visual display. This paper presents a cross-platform solution for presenting data from multiple tracking systems as if it came from a single system. This frees simulations from having to account for multiple data sources, and allows tracked objects to transition seamlessly from an area covered by one tracking system to another. It also presents an application programming interface with a single data format, eliminating the need for hardware drivers. Finally, when self-contained tracking systems are used, they can themselves be tracked, allowing the trackable area to be adjusted in real time. This allows operators to leverage limited resources in more effective ways, improving simulation quality and opening new possibilities for simulations.