Virtual reality (VR) is a computer-generated simulation of a 3D environment that can be interacted with and explored by a user using specialized electronic equipment, such as a headset or gloves equipped with sensors. The invention of VR dates back to the mid-19th century, but it was not until the 1960s that the technology began to develop rapidly.
In this article, we will explore the key figures and developments in the history of virtual reality and determine who can truly be considered its inventor.
Morton Heilig
In 1838,
Morton Heilig
patented a device called the “Stereoscope,” which produced stereo images by presenting two different perspectives simultaneously. This invention laid the foundation for virtual reality, as it demonstrated the potential for creating immersive visual experiences.
Ivan Sutherland
In 1963,
Ivan Sutherland
created the first VR system called the “Sword of Damocles.” It was a room-sized dome with a projector that displayed stereoscopic images on two screens suspended above the user’s head. Sutherland is often credited with inventing virtual reality and his work paved the way for future developments in the field.
Jeremy Blyth
In 1967,
Jeremy Blyth
developed the first VR headset called the “Oculus,” which allowed users to explore a virtual world through a single screen. Blyth’s invention revolutionized virtual reality by making it possible for multiple people to experience the same virtual environment simultaneously.
Michael Noll
In 1972,
Michael Noll
created the first 3D computer graphics program and was one of the pioneers of VR. He developed a system called the “Head-Mounted Display” (HMD) that allowed users to explore a virtual world while wearing a headset. Noll’s work laid the foundation for future developments in computer graphics and virtual reality.
Summary:
While
Morton Heilig
,
Ivan Sutherland
,
Jeremy Blyth
, and
Michael Noll
all made significant contributions to the development of virtual reality, it is difficult to determine a single inventor. The invention of VR was a collaborative effort that spanned several decades and involved many different individuals and organizations. However,
Ivan Sutherland
‘s work in creating the first VR system and
Jeremy Blyth
‘s development of the first VR headset are widely recognized as key milestones in the history of virtual reality.
