Development of string-based multi-finger haptic interface SPIDAR-MF

This article aims to introduce and explain the design of a new string-based multi-finger haptic interface named SPIDAR-MF(Space Interface Device for Artificial Reality Multi-Finger), which can display a 3 degree-of-freedom spatial force feedback for each finger of a human hand through 4 strings attached to each fingertip. By measuring the lengths of 4 strings attached to it individually, the SPIDAR-MF can calculate the position of each fingertip, and then give force feedbacks to each fingertip by using motors to adjust tensions of the strings. A rotary frame which motors are mounted on is proposed to solve the problem that strings may be twisted because of the movement caused by the fingers. The experimental results show that SPIDAR-MF is effective and feasible to provide a multi-finger haptic interaction environment with objects in the virtual world.