Key Takeaways
1. Advanced Tracking Capabilities: SlimeVR Butterfly Trackers offer precise full-body tracking, including hand, finger, and foot movements.
2. Versatile Applications: These trackers can be used by VTubers, gamers, and for scientific analysis of athletes’ movements.
3. Lightweight and Efficient Design: Each tracker is under 0.35 oz and less than 0.28 inches thick, ensuring comfort during use.
4. No External Equipment Required: The system operates without base stations or cameras, providing 360-degree coverage with low latency and good accuracy.
5. Compatibility and Battery Life: The system supports SteamVR and has a battery life exceeding 48 hours, with options for use in software like Blender and Unity.
Tracking hand movements in virtual reality has become a common feature, enhancing the overall experience for users. Some advanced systems are even capable of tracking fingers and feet. Currently, the SlimeVR Butterfly Trackers are up for grabs through an ongoing Crowd Supply campaign, and they promise precise full-body tracking.
Versatile Applications
These trackers are designed for various applications. VTubers can use them to manipulate their avatars, while gamers can integrate them into their gameplay. Additionally, these devices may serve scientific purposes or help analyze athletes’ movements.
Lightweight and Efficient Design
The system is made up of several individual trackers that can be secured to different body parts using straps. Each tracker is quite light, weighing under 0.35 oz, and they are also thin, measuring less than 0.28 inches. This makes them easy to wear without hindrance. The technology utilizes IMU sensors to monitor movement, and it can send data over distances exceeding 33 ft to devices like computers, smartphones, or headsets. The SlimeVR server integrates information from these independent sensors.
No Need for External Equipment
One of the standout features is that there’s no need for base stations or cameras. The company asserts that the sensors provide 360-degree coverage by gathering their own data, eliminating the requirement to stay within a camera’s view. The latency is reported to be less than 15 ms, with an accuracy between 0.39 to 1.97 inches. However, this might mean that very subtle movements, like slight trembling, may go unnoticed.
The manufacturer states that the system has built-in support for SteamVR, making it compatible with a variety of games, along with OSC and VMC. It also claims that motion capture can be easily executed in Blender and Unity with appropriate plugins. The battery life is said to exceed 48 hours. Backers can reserve a package with six trackers priced at $279, but the usual uncertainties of crowdfunding initiatives should be taken into consideration.
CrowdSupply, Image: SlimeVR
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