Virtual Space Devices, a Michigan-based company, has been developing an omni-directional treadmill since 1996, and they appear to have come up with a real solution — a self-contained unit which allows you to walk (or run) in any direction you choose, without actually covering any ground. I expect the military, which has been very progressive in using simulations and virtual environments in training, will be the first customer. But I’m sure this type of device will quickly make its way into entertainment venues and eventually people’s homes.( news from
http://www.vsd.bz/ )