Supporting Remote Welding Through Haptic Feedback : A simulated study on haptic technology
Sagor, Jahid Hasan (2024)
2024
Tietojenkäsittelyopin maisteriohjelma - Master's Programme in Computer Science
Informaatioteknologian ja viestinnän tiedekunta - Faculty of Information Technology and Communication Sciences
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Hyväksymispäivämäärä
2024-12-17
Julkaisun pysyvä osoite on
https://urn.fi/URN:NBN:fi:tuni-2024120510821
https://urn.fi/URN:NBN:fi:tuni-2024120510821
Tiivistelmä
Haptic feedback has become an increasingly important feature in virtual reality (VR) systems, particularly for industrial training applications that demand high levels of precision and engagement. This study explores the potential impact of haptic technology such as tactile and kinesthetic feedback in virtual training environments, focusing on a simulated industrial welding context. The research compares SenseGlove Nova, a wearable haptic enabled device, with traditional VR controllers to evaluate their impact on task performance, user engagement, and immersion.
A within-subjects experimental design was employed, where participants performed identical welding tasks using both devices. Quantitative metrics, such as task completion efficiency, engagement, accuracy, were collected alongside subjective user feedback obtained through post-task questionnaires and open-ended responses. The data were analyzed using a mixed-method approach, combining statistical analysis of Likert-scale ratings with qualitative thematic analysis.
The results revealed that while haptic feedback did not significantly enhance task precision, it significantly improved user engagement and immersion. Participants reported that the tactile sensations provided by SenseGlove Nova enhanced the realism of the virtual environment, creating a more engaging simulation experience. However, ergonomic limitations, such as the weight and restricted mobility of the SenseGlove Nova, emerged as barriers to extended use and fine motor precision.
This study highlights the complementary roles of tactile and kinesthetic feedback in industrial training, suggesting the potential for hybrid gloves where VR controller functionalities along with haptic technology to optimize performance across diverse tasks. The findings underscore the need for ergonomic improvements and task-specific adaptations in haptic devices to maximize their utility. By bridging the gap between virtual and real-world experiences, this research contributes to advancing VR-based training solutions and informs future developments in haptic technology.
A within-subjects experimental design was employed, where participants performed identical welding tasks using both devices. Quantitative metrics, such as task completion efficiency, engagement, accuracy, were collected alongside subjective user feedback obtained through post-task questionnaires and open-ended responses. The data were analyzed using a mixed-method approach, combining statistical analysis of Likert-scale ratings with qualitative thematic analysis.
The results revealed that while haptic feedback did not significantly enhance task precision, it significantly improved user engagement and immersion. Participants reported that the tactile sensations provided by SenseGlove Nova enhanced the realism of the virtual environment, creating a more engaging simulation experience. However, ergonomic limitations, such as the weight and restricted mobility of the SenseGlove Nova, emerged as barriers to extended use and fine motor precision.
This study highlights the complementary roles of tactile and kinesthetic feedback in industrial training, suggesting the potential for hybrid gloves where VR controller functionalities along with haptic technology to optimize performance across diverse tasks. The findings underscore the need for ergonomic improvements and task-specific adaptations in haptic devices to maximize their utility. By bridging the gap between virtual and real-world experiences, this research contributes to advancing VR-based training solutions and informs future developments in haptic technology.