Challenge to solve
Typing in VR environments remains a challenge. As conventional VR keyboards rely solely on visual
(and occasionally auditory) cues and lack tactile feedback, they can lead to higher error rates and a
slow adaptation compared to physical keyboards. Accidental key presses, uncomfortable typing
positions, and a lack of confidence in their inputs are common challenges users face when typing in
VR, especially after prolonged use.
A group of graduate researchers at Heilbronn University’s UniTyLab sought to explore how VR and XR technology could help address these issues and contribute to a more intuitive and responsive way of typing in VR.
Implementation of haptic gloves
Researchers developed a custom haptic-enabled VR keyboard, designed to be used with the
SenseGlove Nova 2 haptic gloves. This keyboard integrated dynamic hover effects, visual and
auditory cues, and haptic feedback for optimal performance. It also featured a familiar QWERTY
layout, enhanced by a hover mechanism that recognizes finger proximity through weighted key
detection.
The Nova 2 gloves provided users with realistic tactile sensations during key presses, simulating the
nuanced feedback of physical keyboards. Users could feel the resistance of the keys as they typed,
making typing in VR more natural and lifelike.
The results
The keyboard was tested in a controlled laboratory study, comparing it with a conventional curved
MRTK keyboard that used traditional Meta Quest 3 controllers for text input. The results indicated that the custom haptic-enabled keyboard significantly reduced error rates, leading to more precise and reliable text entry. Users also reported greater comfort and confidence, as the VR haptic gloves contribute to a more natural way of interacting with virtual environments.
This research highlights the value of wearable haptic devices like the SenseGlove Nova 2 in VR environments, paving the way for more efficient and ergonomic solutions in both professional and academic settings.
