Abstract: An exemplary viewing apparatus comprises a visual display which transmits image data to a user and which is rotatably coupled, preferably in three dimensions, to a boom which supports the visual display. According to one embodiment, the operator inserts his head into the visual display and grasps the control grips with both hands to interact in three dimensions with a virtual world and with virtual objects in the virtual world via graphics displayed to each eye. The visual display may be equipped with sensing devices which allow for the sensing of both location and directional coordinates in three dimensions relative to the user and the virtual world and objects. The visual display preferably houses two LCD displays which direct separate images to the user's eyes so that the images are perceived stereoscopically. Because the visual display is mechanically coupled to the boom, the apparatus may be left unattended.

Abstract: An exemplary apparatus for counterbalancing a video display comprises a stationary housing, a boom rotatably fixed to the housing which supports the video display, a counterweight boom disposed within the housing and below the boom for counterbalancing the torque imparted on the boom by the video display, a coupling member which mechanically couples the counterweight boom to the boom such that they move in unison, and a stabilizer which limits the speed at which the boom and counterweight boom travel to prevent injury to users. The location of the counterweight boom inside the housing and below the boom results in a lower center of mass of the apparatus which significantly improves stability.