The HMD often contain stereo speakers as well, which further enhances the illusion of being in a three dimensional world. The computer generating the VR world receives information about the user's motions through sensors in the HMD, and 'data gloves' that provide data on the user's hand position and movements. In the computer-generated 'virtual world,' the user's view changes as he moves his head. The user can also see his 'virtual hands' pick up and manipulate objects within the virtual world. The real excitement over VR lies in the ability to explore computer-generated worlds.
Any data contained in a computer has the potential for being a computer-generated world.
This can include information on chemical compounds, business information, plans for a new airplane, and innumerable other types of data. Computer users, who are currently limited to viewing this data through a two-dimensional monitor, and who must use a keyboard and mouse to manipulate information, will be able to walk through their creations. The VR interface will allow auto designers to ride in a car, and listen to the wind and engine noise, or see if the controls are placed comfortably, long before expensive mock-ups are ever built. It will allow business users to spot trends in their reports previously invisible. Once again, a key advantage is intuitiveness.