Purpose
Surf VR was developed with the goal of creating a realistic and immersive virtual reality surfing simulator designed to reduce chronic pain. By simulating the experience of surfing, the platform enables controlled studies on how surf therapy can alleviate pain, making it accessible to individuals who may not have the opportunity to surf in real life due to geographic, weather, or physical constraints. Since its launch, Surf VR has continued to evolve, incorporating features such as haptic feedback for wind simulation, improved motion tracking through external cameras, and enhanced motion algorithms to provide a more realistic board response. Looking ahead, the development team is working on integrating haptic gloves to simulate the sensation of water, refining weight- shifting controls for a more natural interaction, and enhancing wave simulation technology. While the hardware is largely finalized, the focus remains on improving the software to increase realism. Initially centered on chronic pain relief, the platform is now expanding its applications beyond surfing, incorporating activities like stand-up paddleboarding and flight simulation to reach a broader audience.
Where We See Impact
The impact of Surf VR has been demonstrated through multiple research studies, highlighting its effectiveness in reducing chronic pain and minimizing VR motion sickness due to the physical motion platform. These findings reinforce its potential as a therapeutic tool, replicating the benefits of ocean surfing in a controlled virtual setting. While no unexpected use cases have emerged, the system has exceeded expectations in terms of functionality and user effectiveness. Currently, the project is in collaboration with USC, with future opportunities for partnerships with other institutions being explored. To scale its impact, Surf VR aims to expand its target population and explore additional applications beyond surfing, broadening the system’s reach and overall effectiveness. This commitment to innovation aligns with the platform’s core mission: “To create a realistic and immersive virtual reality surfing simulator with the goal of reducing chronic pain.”
Accessing This Experience
Users access Surf VR by wearing a VR headset and engaging with a six degrees of freedom motion platform, where a mounted surfboard allows for realistic movement. The system incorporates hand tracking, wind feedback through fans, and is in development to include haptic gloves to enhance the sensory experience. Over time, the approach to hardware compatibility has evolved, shifting from Oculus/Meta Quest internal hand tracking to external cameras, enabling more precise motion capture and a natural paddling experience.
While AI integration is not currently part of the platform due to limited data, the system has been optimized to improve user engagement, addressing barriers such as the learning curve for paddling techniques with enhanced tracking methods. Unlike many VR experiences that cause discomfort after a few minutes, Surf VR allows users to engage comfortably for over 30 minutes. Initially designed for individuals experiencing chronic pain, the platform’s target audience is now expanding to broader populations and alternative applications, making immersive therapy more widely accessible. This innovative system is currently set up as a research lab at the Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, where it is being studied and refined for greater impact.
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