Keywords: LifeChair Posture Cushion | Mixed Reality | Gaming
LifeChair-X for Gaming takes the original LifeChair invention and implements it as a posture based controller for a video game so that the player can control a digital avatar by using their posture. Extensively, in-game phenomena such as collisions or weather effects, are conveyed to the user through vibrations on the LifeChair interface. This allows for thrilling and immersive gameplay for free-runners, sports games, action games and 3D adventure games in 2D display, mixed reality or virtual reality. This system provides full directional movement and interaction control in-game by transforming a user’s detected posture into a controller input. The most popular showcase is controlling a character in a free runner game by dodging obstacles, jumping over barriers and attacking oncoming enemies. The user can move the character by shifting their posture left and right, they can also make the character jump or slide by moving their posture back and forth. Fine movements, such as moving the right shoulder forward, allow the character to perform an action in-game, such as interacting with an object of attacking an enemy.
By shifting the body while seated, the user can also train their balance and tone their core all while being immersed in gameplay. This helps counteract the rounded shoulders posture users often develop during prolonged gameplay sessions. The envisioned applications for this system were primarily targeted at entertainment but recently I have explored its benefits to the rehabilitation and healthcare space for the improvement of health and wellbeing.
Playing video games is fun, but playing excessively can have negative effects on our posture and general wellbeing. By creating the LifeChair for gaming I intended to keep the player engaged in the game while also exercising. I sought to bring to life an innovative and interesting platform that provides a challenging yet enjoyable mixed reality experience. My vision is to see these being deployed in game centres, future cinemas and in homes around the world.