New Design of a VirtualGlove for Grasping Applications

Abstract

Virtual gloves have received much attention in the field of virtual reality and computer simulations. They are considered to be essential tools for implementing any sort of hand-based experiences in virtual environments. For applications with simpler motions, the accuracy of finger-bending amount returned by these virtual gloves is not of primary interest. For grasping applications, however, inaccuracy in the bending amount results in unrealistic scenarios having discrepancies in the contact geometry for the hand and the object. In this study, we improve the measurements of bending amount by placing the bend sensors on the palm of the hand, where the objects are touched directly. Supporting evaluative data and design details are also discussed. (C) 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.