The robotics scientists at Cornell University in New York are collaborating with Nvidia on a 3D/VR controller that uses its Shape changedmatching the material you touch in virtual reality.
The controller can simulate various hard and soft surfaces. To do this, a kind of haptic skin is attached to the handle. This is currently still done in conjunction with the 3D controller from HTC Vive. The effect is achieved by pumping air into the skin folds. However, this requires a compressor, which has to be wired up and consumes a lot of energy. It remains to be seen whether the whole thing can be realised for home use. Gaming arcades would be more likely.
A prototype will be presented at the Siggraph 2017 presented. Swords with different grips are demonstrated, all of which feel different. Of course, this also works with pistols and all kinds of other objects that are supposed to feel as if you are holding a real object in your hand. A sponge, for example, should feel different to a stone. This kind of technology would certainly enhance VR experiences significantly.
Source: VRODO
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