A Wii remote-based infrared-optical tracking system

Infrared-optical tracking systems are essential for virtual reality and augmented reality environments; moreover, also video games and entertainment applications can take advantage of real 6-DOF trackers. Unfortunately, specialized hardware is often used, and this leads to a lack of affordability, thus delaying or averting the adoption of this technology.This paper presents an extremely affordable tracking system based on Wii remotes used as IR cameras. The proposed solution allows to track in real-time a 6-DOF target at a cost of less than one thousand dollars. Moreover, the tracking system has been integrated within an open source 3D content creation suite to deliver a flexible and extensible graphics tool.

Research highlights
► Consumer electronics allows researchers to design affordable VR tools.
► Wii remotes are used as IR cameras to implement a 6-DOF tracking system.
► Games and entertainment applications can take advantage of affordable trackers.