Microsoft shows VR controller that can mimic the feeling of virtual objects

Microsoft Research is working on a VR controller that can mimic the sense of touch and grip. The company calls these controllers X-Rings. It is not known whether the controllers will eventually appear on the market.

Microsoft Research showcased the X-Rings controllers at an ACM Sigchi symposium. The company talks about a 360-degree ‘shape display’, which can mimic the feel of 3D objects from VR environments. The controllers consist almost entirely of 3D-printed objects, with the exception of the screws and alloys used, the company claims.

The X-Rings consist of modular ‘stacks’ of four motor-driven rings. Those rings can change size, with diameters ranging from 5.7 to 7.7 centimeters. The controllers also attach to users’ palms with a loop of sorts, meaning users can move their fingers freely when using the controller.

The VR controllers can also respond to the touch and grip strength of users via capacitive sensors. For example, users can break a vase by squeezing an X-Rings controller hard. The response time would be less than 100ms. The company shows the capabilities of the X-Rings controllers in a demonstration video.