The virtual environment was programmed in Vizard (version 5.7, WorldViz LLC), a python-based VR software. To allow participants to physically navigate the conceptual space, we employed a novel VR set-up consisting of an omnidirectional motion platform (Cyberith Virtualizer) and a head mounted display (Oculus Rift CV1). The HMD had a resolution of pixels and a refresh rate of 90 Hz. In the motion platform, participants were secured in a harness. The harness was attached to a rotatable ring, affording the ability to freely rotate. Participants wore low-friction overshoes which allowed them to slide their feet across the baseplate as they stepped forward. The virtualizer generated a speed value from the sliding motion across the baseplate. Orientation and speed were measured at 90 Hz.
In the MG, the motion platform was used to navigate the space. The speed and ring orientation readings controlled the participant’s position, and the HMD orientation readings were used to update the angular colour code. In the GG, an Xbox One controller was used to navigate the space. The left stick on the controller determined the angular velocity while the right trigger determined the translational velocity. The translational velocity for both the GG and MG was smoothed by four frames (0.044 s).
In the MG, the motion platform was used to navigate the space. The speed and ring orientation readings controlled the participant’s position, and the HMD orientation readings were used to update the angular colour code. In the GG, an Xbox One controller was used to navigate the space. The left stick on the controller determined the angular velocity while the right trigger determined the translational velocity. The translational velocity for both the GG and MG was smoothed by four frames (0.044 s).