FlexTorque. Innovative Haptic Interface

FlexTorque (haptic display that generates Flexor and extensor Torque) suggests new possibilities for highly realistic, very natural physical interaction in virtual environments. There are no restrictions on the arm movement, and it is not necessary to hold a physical object during interaction with objects in virtual reality. Because the system can generate strong forces, even though it is light-weight, easily wearable, and intuitive, users experience a new level of realism as they interact with virtual environments. A number of games for sport experiences, which provide a natural, realistic, and intuitive feeling of immersion into virtual environment, can be implemented (such as: augmented arm wrestling, fishing, shooting with weapon recoil, archery, tennis, sword dueling, etc.). Other possible applications are exercise machine in virtual gym, haptic navigator for blind person, medical rehabilitation robot. The future goal is the integration of the accelerometer and MEMS gyroscopes into the holder and fixator for capturing the complex movement and recognizing the gesture of the user. The new version of the FlexTorque (ExoInterface) will take advantages of the Exoskeletons (strong force feedback) and Wii Remote Interface (motion-sensing capabilities). Developers: Dr. Dzmitry Tsetserukou, PhD candidate Katsunari Sato, PhD candidate Alena Neviarouskaya, University of Tokyo Webpage: tachilab.org Publications: tachilab.org

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