A wearable haptic game controller

TL;DR

This paper presents a wearable, low-cost haptic game controller that combines vibrotactile feedback with gesture input, creating an immersive and intuitive interface that blurs the boundary between user and virtual environment.

Contribution

It introduces a novel wearable device integrating vibrotactile feedback with gesture control, challenging traditional interface concepts and enhancing immersion in digital gaming.

Findings

Provides a versatile, low-cost haptic controller for gaming

Enables intuitive, gesture-based interaction with virtual environments

Enhances immersion by blurring user and machine boundaries

Abstract

This paper outlines the development of a wearable game controller incorporating vibrotacticle haptic feedback that provides a low cost, versatile and intuitive interface for controlling digital games. The device differs from many traditional haptic feedback implementation in that it combines vibrotactile based haptic feedback with gesture based input, thus becoming a two way conduit between the user and the virtual environment. The device is intended to challenge what is considered an "interface" and draws on work in the area of Actor-Network theory to purposefully blur the boundary between man and machine. This allows for a more immersive experience, so rather than making the user feel like they are controlling an aircraft the intuitive interface allows the user to become the aircraft that is controlled by the movements of the user's hand. This device invites playful action and thrill. It bridges new territory on portable and low cost solutions for haptic controllers in a gaming context.