Microsoft Research showed a prototype VR controller which can dynamically adapt its shape. The new device is called ‘X-Rings’, and it has four motor-driven expandable rings with capacitive sensors that let the device simulate grasping and deforming virtual objects.
The prototype is strapped to a user's hand so that players can let go and naturally throw. The advanced technology behind the project would, for example, enable developers to add complex interactions such as breaking virtual projects by squeezing them.
Changing shape or “shape rendering” takes less than 100 milliseconds (9 frames at 90 Hz), according to the research team. They have already tested the device with a group of potential users saying that the result was an 80% success rate.
