ConCon: A Wrist-Worn Clutch-Coupled Force-Feedback Device for VR Controller

Effective force feedback is critical for user immersion in VR. However, current solutions have limitations; ungrounded devices using propellers or air-jets often suffer from slow response times and bulky hardware, body-worn devices tend to hinder hand movement, and wrist-worn force-feedback devices usually restrict free wrist movement. To address these challenges, we present ConCon, a wrist-worn 3-DoF force-feedback device utilizing motors with electromagnetic clutches. ConCon’s three actuation units apply force to wrist along the radial/ulnar-deviation, flexion/extension, and proximal/distal directions. Clutches can control force transmission continuously, discretely, or impulsively by suddenly releasing a loaded-state. They also enable unimpeded free movement by minimizing mechanical resistance. We first evaluated ConCon’s technical performance, including force output, wrist manipulation range, wrist impedance while free movement, and clutch response time. Subsequently, a user study (N=12) across six VR scenarios (Slingshot, Door, Fishing, Handfan, Pistol, Spray) showed ConCon provided significantly higher fun, immersion, and realism than vibrotactile feedback.