Design and development of low-cost portable immersive spaces

In this paper, we will explore the potentials of low-cost portable immersive environments that combine textile structures, gesture-based interfaces and multiple projections. Our aim is to develop affordable, easy to set up, portable and inviting immersive spaces that can serve as an interface between a web-based geographic virtual environment, experts and lay people. In this context, after the introduction, we will review a variety of methods, conceptual tools and materials related to textile tectonics and techniques which can be individually used or combined for the development and construction of portable immersive spaces. In the next section, we will discuss the opportunities and challenges of using a low-cost gesture-based interface (Kinect) to support "touchless" interactions. Consequently, we will present the design alternatives of low-cost portable immersive spaces that we have synthesized from our background studies. This will be followed by the observations and findings from our prototype development, implementation and preliminary testing processes. In conclusion, we will discuss our conclusions and recommendations regarding the future developmentof low-cost portable immersive spaces.