VR Glove Controller

Publication link: https://doi.org/10.5445/IR/1000190071 

Description:

The VR Glove Controller was designed for manual wheelchair users who wish to interact with Virtual Reality while also propelling their wheelchairs. Each Glove Controller has four buttons and one joystick and combines the functionality of conventional VR controllers with hand tracking. They are unobtrusive and keep relevant hand areas free for interactions with hand rims.

Design Approach:

We engaged in a Research through Design approach, in which we co-designed the VR Glove Controller with one manual wheelchair user. Our work was structured into distinct phases: At the start, we got acquainted and discussed requirements and ideas for bespoke VR controllers (ideation phase). Next, we engaged in multiple development cycles in which we built and implemented hardware and software artifacts in our lab (implementation phase), and then met to gather feedback (feedback phase). At the end, we discussed and reflected on the overall process and how the bespoke VR Glove Controller could be adapted for more general use.

Implications for VR Experience:

By creating a body-worn controller that does not need to be held during interaction, users can engage with their wheelchair in an everyday style. This reduces friction when interacting with VR, with the goal of supporting immersion and presence.

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