Tallahassee, Florida Patent of the Year – 2024/2025
OmniPad Inc. has been awarded the 2024/2025 Patent of the Year for its groundbreaking omnidirectional treadmill. Their invention, detailed in U.S. Patent No. 11911653, titled ‘Omnidirectional moving surface including motor drive’, employs a motor-driven, spherical surface to enable natural, 360-degree movement in virtual environments.
The OmniPad allows users to walk, jog, or run in any direction without the need for harnesses or special footwear. Its core innovation is a flexible, motorized bladder supported by omni-wheels and ball bearings, creating a seamless and responsive locomotion surface. This design offers a more immersive VR experience by translating real-world movement into virtual spaces.
Unlike traditional VR setups that rely on handheld controllers or limited movement platforms, the OmniPad provides a full-body engagement. Users can navigate expansive virtual worlds on foot, enhancing applications in gaming, fitness, rehabilitation, and professional training. The treadmill’s adaptability makes it suitable for a wide range of users, from casual gamers to military personnel undergoing simulation exercises.
The patent outlines features such as a motion feedback system to predict user steps, adjustable height and tilt for varied terrains, and a multi-layer tread surface composed of pentagons and hexagons for improved traction. These elements work together to create a realistic and responsive environment that mirrors natural movement.
OmniPad Inc.’s innovation marks a significant advancement in virtual reality technology, bridging the gap between physical movement and digital interaction. By enabling users to move freely and naturally within virtual spaces, the OmniPad sets a new standard for immersive experiences.