A new virtual reality device gives users another sense when it comes to VR experiences: touch. It was developed by researchers at Carnegie Mellon University.<\/p>\n
Cathy Fang, a CMU mechanical engineering and human-computer interaction student, said her dream scenarios for how the tech could be used include high-fiving game characters and virtual furniture shopping.<\/p>\n
Virtual reality has come a long way in presenting an experience that looks and sounds real. But once users stick their hand through a wall, spatial awareness returns and actual reality sets in. By working with the headset software, Fang said Wireality takes the theater of VR a step further.<\/p>\n
\"Not only would it allow me to feel like some person's in front of me, I can also interact with them in a 'physical' way,\" she said.<\/p>\n
Wireality works by attaching the users hands, wrists and fingers to a spring-loaded string mechanism that uses a motion sensor to communicate with the VR headset. When a user's hand comes up against a virtual object, the strings locknot unlike the way a car seatbelt stops when a driver hits the break.<\/p>\n
It doesnt use a motor, which Fang said sets it apart from other similar devices in development.<\/p>\n
Most of the parts that we use for the current design are all off-the-shelf components, Fang said. Parts that need to be customized can be 3-D printed or laser cut.<\/p>\n
There isnt yet a timeline for when the device could be available to the market, but according to Fang, Wireality would weigh about 10 ounces and cost less than $50.<\/p>\n
The device stops short of letting users pick up objects and feel texture in the virtual world, but Fang said combining this tech with other touch tech would create a fuller virtual reality experience.<\/p>\n
WESA receives funding from Carnegie Mellon University.<\/p>\n
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CMU Tech Enables Users To High Five And Touch Solid Surfaces In Virtual Reality - 90.5 WESA<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" A new virtual reality device gives users another sense when it comes to VR experiences: touch. It was developed by researchers at Carnegie Mellon University. Continue reading