Location-Based Virtual Reality System for a Handheld Device

Abstract

The invention relates to a location-based Virtual Reality (VR) system optimized for use as a safe, handheld viewing device in outdoor environments. The system solves the inherent problems of standalone VR devices, specifically visual positioning drift and hardware limitations in rendering massive 3D environments. The invention combines a mobile device, a strapless VR housing, and an external high-precision GNSS module with GNSS antenna, which utilizes RTK (Real-Time Kinematic) correction data for centimetre-level accuracy. To conserve computational resources and eliminate tracking drift, the system relies exclusively on GNSS coordinates to automatically trigger pre-rendered 360-degree stereoscopic image spheres. The user navigates hazardous terrain safely by holding the device, while a mono earpiece provides an audio experience without auditorily isolating the user from their physical surroundings.