The ultimate objective of virtual reality (VR) is an immersive experience that fully simulates our perception of life. Out of all the perceptions only vision and sound are on the necessary level, whereas the third most important sense – touch, is still underdeveloped.
Valkyrie Industries is developing a universal technology of touch (haptics) for virtual simulations. Its proprietary wearable tool allows developers to create more impactful virtual simulations to allow richer content creation such as training, touch before you buy and applied engineering applications.
The startup off-handedly refers to the current iteration of its VR suit as “Iron Man v. 1.”
Many VR suits are designed to provide immersive gaming experiences to customers; however, Valkyrie takes a different approach. Its VR suits are for professional use, which would work towards boosting efficiency.
The system utilizes electrical impulses to stimulate muscles, approximating resistance and touch. With the product still very much in the early stages, reports TechCrunch.
The suit could be utilized in industrial applications such as training for dangerous or highly complex jobs, allowing companies to train their workforce with far less risk.
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About Valkyrie
Valkyrie is an early stage start-up that is building the world’s first universal platform that delivers a natural perception of touch by using machine learning to understand each individual’s muscle movements and sensory thresholds. The company was formed over a year ago with two premises in mind: that 1. current human computer interfaces require advanced haptics and that 2. advanced haptics will expand applications for virtual simulations. The London-based three-person company is currently seed funded.