Introduction:
The haptics market is fast-paced and continuously evolving. The journey from the SenseGlove Nova to the Nova 2 signifies a significant evolution in haptic gloves. Let’s dissect and compare the features, advancements, and user experiences of the Nova and its successor, the Nova 2.
Stronger Force Feedback and Active Contact Feedback:
One of the critical aspects of haptic gloves is their ability to deliver interactions and tactile sensations. The Nova set a high standard in this regard, offering an impressive level of sensory feedback, including force feedback and vibrotactile feedback. The Nova 2 takes this to the next level. While including vibrotactile feedback and strengthened force feedback, it is the first wireless haptic glove to include palm feedback, which is due to the active haptic strap simulating active contact feedback. Lastly, finger tracking in the Nova 2 now includes 6 degrees of freedom, compared to 5 degrees in the Nova, allowing for more precise finger movements.
Design:
The Nova introduced users to a comfortable and functional design, allowing for natural hand movements and a snug fit, compared to SenseGlove’s very first haptic glove, the DK1, which had an exoskeleton form. With the Nova 2, the design has evolved to prioritise user comfort even further. The updated glove features a sleeker and more streamlined design, ensuring a more natural and intuitive feel during extended use. The addition of foam in several areas increases comfort, and removing external features such as wiring from the thumb ads to the refined look and feel.
Ease of Use and Customization:
One notable improvement in the SenseGlove Nova 2 lies in its enhanced user-friendliness. Donning and doffing the Nova 2 has been streamlined, making the overall experience more efficient. The process of swapping soft gloves to accommodate different sizes has been simplified, allowing users to personalise their haptic experience with ease. Additionally, mounting trackers for precise motion tracking is now more straightforward on the Nova 2, providing users with greater flexibility and convenience in adapting the gloves to various setups. These improvements in usability not only enhance the overall user experience but also contribute to the Nova 2’s versatility across different applications and user preferences.
Conclusion:
In the journey from the SenseGlove Nova to the Nova 2, we witness an evolution in haptic efficiency. The Nova 2 not only refines the already impressive features of its predecessor but introduces new advancements that cater to the growing demands of diverse industries. Let the sense of touch bring interactive digital environments to life.
