Google Cardboard

Google Cardboard
Basic Info
Type	Virtual Reality Headset
Developer	Google
Release Date	June 2014
Website	Google Cardboard
System
Storage
Display
Image
Optics
Tracking
Audio
Connectivity
Device

"Virtual Reality]] Headset" cannot be used as a page name in this wiki.

Google Cardboard, announced in Google I/O on June 25, 2014, is a DIY, cardboard cut-out, smartphone mount developed by Google. With a smartphone inserted, Google Cardboard allows the user to have a Virtual Reality experience by holding it close to his or her face.

While Google Cardboard requires a smartphone with stereoscopic display software, this simple and affordable device is constructed with lenses, a magnet, a piece of hook-and-loop fastener and a rubber band. With no official manufacturer, Google has listed the schematics and instructions for the device on its website. Users can either construct one themselves or purchase them from a number of unofficial vendors.

Apps such as immersive games and concert experiences are available in the Google Play store. Developers familiar with OpenGL can use Cardboard SDK for Android to rapidly create VR apps for the device.

Hardware

The core of Google Cardboard is a folded piece of cardboard cutout. The cardboard container serves to mount your smartphone in front of your eyes similar to a set of goggles. Two circular lenses are placed in front of where your eyes should be and used to concentrate your field of view to create immersion. User can slide one of the two magnets placed at the side of the device to interact with the smartphone through the magnetometer. Additionally, an NFC tag can be placed in the device to allow the smartphone app to know when it should be in VR mode and when it should not.

Parts

Cardboard - Corrugated cardboard sheet, preferably E Flute (corrugated cardboard comes in a variety of thicknesses called "flutes"), available at many art supply stores and online . For best results, you should look for strong, thin cardboard (sturdy shoe box rather than moving box). Minimum size: 8.75in (22cm) by 22in (56cm), and 0.06in (1.5mm) thickness.

2 Lenses - This is the trickiest component. Lenses that have a 45mm focal distance might work. Biconvex lenses work best because they prevent distortion around the edges.

2 Magnets - One neodymium ring magnet and one ceramic disk magnet. Approximate size: 0.75in (19mm) diameter and 0.12in (3mm) thickness.

2 Velcro - Two strips of regular strength adhesive-backed velcro. Approximate size: 0.75in (20mm) by 1.25in (30mm).

1 Rubberband - One rubber band, to prevent the phone from sliding out. Minimum length of 3.2in (8cm).

1 NFC Tag (Optional) - One sticker NFC tag. Program it with the URL cardboard://v1.0.0

Instructions

The following are 3 images. Please print the images then glue the images onto cardboard. Next cut out the cardboard based on the images and construct the device.

Apps