 |
|
|
 |
13 Mar 2023
iMetaWear launches haptics shirt for VR and the metaverse
BY
Frances Marcellin
|
The iMetaWear shirt in action
photo: ITRI
The Industrial Technology Research Institute (ITRI) in Taiwan has developed a haptics shirt that can enhance VR and metaverse sports and fitness experiences with sensory feedback over the body. Called iMetaWear, it is designed to provide the user with more immersive gameplay as a result of bodily sensations that make the scenario feel more real. For example, during a VR boxing match, the opponent’s punches can be felt by the user in different parts of the body. However, the shirt could have value in other industries and use cases too, such as physical therapy.
Fitted with ten haptic points and four sets of electrodes, when combined they provide 24 combinations of force and speed. Image recognition technology recognises motion and generates electrical currents within the shirt to create the sensation of impact where the virtual version was applied.
According to the government-funded research centre, dry, washable, fabric-based electrodes are “screen printed into somatosensory garments”, eliminating the need for adhesive electrodes. A clip-on box, which attaches at waist level and includes a rechargable battery as a power source, magnetically attaches to the connection points on the shirt. As it can unclip, the shirt can also go through the washing machine like a standard item of clothing.
“iMetaWear is a cutting-edge smart clothing technology that revolutionises the virtual sports experience, offering users an unparalleled level of immersion,” Roger Cheng, ITRI vice president and general director of the Service Systems Technology Center told HCM.
“We are proud to showcase iMetaWear as a prime example of ITRI's innovative thinking and technological advancements, and we look forward to exploring its potential applications in fields such as rehabilitation and physical therapy.”
According to Deloitte’s recent 2023 marketing report, interest in the metaverse is growing fast. Following a survey of over one thousand marketing executives, it says that most industries will gravitate towards the metaverse over the next two years.
ITRI told HCM that the shirt has been developed for B2B purposes and will reach the market through a tech transfer or by licensing the technology to a manufacturer, who would then sell to consumers.
“With iMetaWear, the possibilities are endless,” added Cheng.
 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Connect with
World Leisure |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| News headlines |
|
|
 |
 |
|
30 Mar 2023
Physical activity should be a “mainstay approach” for doctors treating patients with depression, anxiety and psychological distress. This is the
.... more>> |
|
|
|
 |
|
30 Mar 2023
Visitors to Shakespeare’s New Place in Stratford-upon-Avon, UK, are able to view three priceless artefacts together for the first time. To
.... more>> |
|
|
|
 |
|
30 Mar 2023
World Active has finalised its charter, which it plans to adopt at its first-ever general assembly held during the FIBO Global Fitness in Cologne in
.... more>> |
|
|
|
 |
|
30 Mar 2023
Disney has revealed a new animatronic robot, designed to have an “emotional connection” with people. Revealed at SXSW Media Festival earlier this
.... more>> |
|
|
|
|
|
 |
|
| Company profile |
|
1Life
1Life is an innovative lifestyle and
management solutions company
that engages with tens of thousands
of people daily to enhance lives
through health and wellbeing, physical
activity, sport, learning and arts.
View full profile>> |
|
| Catalogue gallery |
|
|
| Featured Supplier |
|
 |
|
|
|
in this issue
• Virgin gets right to wipe out rent arrears
• Fitness industry mourns passing of Jan Spaticchia
• STA offers mindfulness resources
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
 |
| World Leisure jobs |
 |
Swim Teacher
Salary: Competitive
Location: Moulton, Northampton, UK
Company: Everyone Active
|
|
Receptionist
Salary: Competitive
Location: Warwick, UK
Company: Everyone Active
|
|
Membership Consultant
Salary: Competitive salary plus benefits
Location: Warwick, UK
Company: Everyone Active
|
|
|
|
|
|
| Diary dates |
|
| Powered
by leisurediary.com |
 |
|
31 Mar - 02 Apr 2023
BEAUTY Düsseldorf
Düsseldorf Exhibition Centre,
Düsseldorf,
Germany
|
|
|
|
|
