CES 2021 continues to deliver with the reveal of SenseGlove’s motion tracking haptic gloves.
Haptic feedback specialists SenseGlove this week unveiled the SenseGlove Nova, the latest iteration of its force-feedback exoskeleton capable of simulating everything from shapes and impact to stiffness and resistance in VR.
Designed for use by companies for a variety of professional training purposes—such as the proper handling of hazardous material and the use of complex tools or machinery—these futuristic-looking devices allow users to interact with digital objects in a virtual world just as they would in real-life. They can feel the softness of a virtual pillow or the handle of a virtual tool, resulting in a new level of immersion impossible to replicate using conventional motion controllers and basic haptic vibrations.
“Unlike research applications, VR training projects are all about quick implementation. We created SenseGlove Nova—a new glove using stretchable, easy-to-put-on material—specifically for VR training, based on direct customer feedback. The ability to experience digital worlds through intuitive real-world behaviors coupled with a low $5,000 USD price make the SenseGlove Nova the most accessible device for the future of work and a new sense in VR training,” said Gijs den Butter, CEO of SenseGlove in an official release.
So, how does this motion tracking hand gear work exactly? SenseGlove actually based the design of its exoskeleton on the human tendon muscle system. Mechanical wires attached to magnetic friction brakes offer 20n of force across each finger. Voice coil activator technology provides realistic impact simulations, such as the feeling pressing a button, as do vibrotactile actuators located in near the thumb and index finger. A new form-fitting design promises more comfortable interactions as well.
For a better understanding of the Nova’s inner workings, take a look at the SenseGlove DK1, the companies current exoskeleton design. Unlike the Nova, the DK1 is much less subtle in its design; you can clearly see the mechanical components move with and against the user as they interact with various objects in VR. The DK1 has been employed by over 100 companies and organizations, including Airbus, Honda, Cambridge University, Fraunhofer, Procter & Gamble, Scania, Siemens, and Volkswagen to name a few.
“The next big step towards truly immersive VR training is to have haptic interactions. Therefore, Volkswagen collaborates with SenseGlove to make this vision of scalable haptic VR training a reality,” stated Malte Hedemann, Referent Digital Realities (VR /AR) at the Volkswagen Group.”
The SenseGlove Nova is currently available for pre-order at $5,000 per set of gloves with plans to begin shipping March 2021. Those who purchase 10 or more gloves will receive a discounted rate of $3,500 per set of gloves.
For more information visit senseglove.com.
Image Credit: SenseGlove
