PRESENCE_D3.1 Haptics technologies report I

The Digital Touch Technologies Report I (D3.1) provides an update on PRESENCE Work Package 3 (WP3), which focuses on developing a unified tactile input and haptic feedback technology chain. The current status shows significant progress in developing the Presence Haptics API, integrating multiple haptic devices such as the SenseGlove Nova 2, Actronika’s Skinetic vest and Meta Quest 3 & Pro controllers. The project has successfully linked haptic content creation tools, developed a transcoding pipeline for haptic data conversion, and established an emitter-receiver body mapping system for improved interaction fidelity. An XR scenario where all three haptic devices can be used within one scene has been created and demonstrated during the general assembly in Januari. However, some key performance indicators, particularly on the multiplayer functionality is still work in progress. Presence is world’s first project to implement haptic standardization through the MPEG .hjif format for multiple haptic devices, ensuring interoperability across various haptic devices.

Looking ahead, WP3 will focus on testing and refining the multiplayer functionality to support at least six simultaneous users. The transcoding pipeline will be further developed to enable seamless integration between different haptic formats, and additional firmware improvements such as Bluetooth Low Energy communication will enhance real-time rendering. Planned experiments will validate the fidelity of the MPEG. hjif transcoding format, while upcoming publications and pilot studies aim to establish the Presence API as an industry-standard framework for haptic content creation and multi-device interoperability.