Enhancing Tactile Feedback in
Haptic Gloves for Immersive Virtual Reality 
Experiences

Author: Justin J. Tai

Affiliation: Cambridge Center of International Research (CCIR)

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Abstract:​​​​

 

Haptic feedback enhances virtual reality (VR) immersion by simulating physical sensations, yet current systems are often bulky, expensive, and inaccessible. This study presents a cost-effective, minimalist haptic glove designed to replicate texture sensations through vibrations, addressing the need for accessible, realistic feedback in VR. Built with a SparkFun Thing Plus ESP32 microcontroller, vibration motors, and a ceramic vibration sensor, the glove correlates surface roughness with vibration output. Data was collected using MATLAB and an Artemis Data Logger, and virtual textures were rendered in Unity. User testing, including texture identification and reaction time trials, showed 93.2% accuracy for distinguishing textures with voltage differences above 0.29 V, though misclassifications increased at higher voltage ranges. Reaction times in VR were on average 2.5 times slower than normal, revealing the need for improved motor responsiveness and faster data processing. Compared to existing haptic gloves, this design offers lower cost, reduced size, and modularity, making it more accessible for educational and research use. However, the study is limited by a small sample size and a narrow focus on roughness, without incorporating other tactile dimensions such as temperature or compliance. Future work will expand the glove’s capabilities and apply machine learning to enable adaptive, real-time texture simulation.

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Keywords: Haptic, tactile, vibration, feedback, immersive.​

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ISSN 3069-8200