TDK AR+VR Ring Interface: A Prototype Shows Off Components

The advent of augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) technologies has transformed how we interact with digital content, and the need for intuitive, responsive interfaces has grown significantly. At CEATEC 2024, TDK demonstrated a ring-shaped interface (controller), offering new hardware options for AR and VR controllers.

This ring interface, specifically designed for XR (eXtended Reality) glasses, leverages finger movements to control virtual environments. Equipped with a 3D motion sensor, the ring enables users to interact with objects in a virtual space, including through the use of force feedback. By simply moving a finger through the air, users can perform gestures like touching, pushing, pulling, grabbing, and spreading, making interaction intuitive and natural.

The TDK ring interface is powered by several key components developed by TDK, including the “PowerHap” actuator and an inertial measurement unit (IMU), often called a motion sensor. The IMU serves as the primary input for controlling virtual objects, while the PowerHap actuator provides haptic feedback to simulate touch sensation. Together, these technologies create a seamless experience where the user sees and manipulates virtual objects and feels them in real time.

The ring is a demo prototype, with TDK primarily focusing on refining the internal components and drivers. TDK customers will integrate the components into their consumer-facing devices, creating final consumer-ready hardware and applications.

The human interface in AR/VR has always been a challenge. Traditional devices like keyboards, mice, and touch screens are often unavailable or impractical, so developers have experimented with alternatives such as joysticks or eye-tracking. The ring-type controller, however, offers a more compact and potentially more intuitive solution. By allowing users to manipulate the digital environment using their fingers, TDK’s ring interface could pave the way for new AR/VR controllers.

TDK’s continual improvements in component size, performance, and efficiency could further enhance this kind of ring interface.

Filed in General. Read more about Augmented Reality (AR), CEATEC, eXtended Reality (XR) and Japan.