CNN shows off virtual senate toy

CNN offered a sneak peak at its virtual senate technology that will be used during election night coverage to illustrate the balance of power affects the political scene of the country.

The technology features a 3D recreation of the U.S. Senate chamber. CNN reporters are able to stand on the floor and use the virtual environment to illustrate not only the Senate’s split, but other issues at play.

The virtual Senate also allows CNN to insert images on the walls of the senate and have “banners” flip down from the computerized desks.

The setup is shot using multiple cameras, allowing CNN to show a bird’s eye view of the Senate floor or freely showcase individual graphical elements, such as the aforementioned banners.