The launch of Sony Interactive Entertainment’s (SIE) PlayStation 5 is dominating the industry at the moment, even in terms of virtual reality (VR) thanks to the PlayStation Camera Adaptor. Yet where the company goes from here VR wise is a bit of a mystery, even when new patents like this one appear, showcasing designs featuring haptic feedback and sensors which help with comfort.
Spotted by Lets Go Digital, the publication of a patent filing this week showcases a design built around ensuring players are wearing the headset properly so as not to cause discomfort during use.
The description notes: “A sensor generates signals representing whether a computer game headset is being worn properly so that the wearer may be advised. The sensor may be a pressure sensor or motion sensor or stretch sensor on the headset, or it may be a camera that images the wearer and uses image recognition to determine if the headset is on correctly.”
That would certainly be a unique feature and particularly useful for new owners or when used in a public event. How practical it would be to have all these sensors when it comes to weight or useability is another matter, especially if signals indicating the fit come through mid gameplay.
The other interesting part of the patent suggests haptic feedback directly in the headset itself. We’re all used to haptics in controllers or by way of vests yet having a VR headset rumble would be rather unusual. “One or more haptic feedback generators may be mounted on the headset for purposes to be shortly disclosed,” the patent reads.
Now before you hope this is a PlayStation VR 2, it’s worth noting the patent was filed by SIE back in September 2016, shortly before the launch in PlayStation VR. In that time various patents have been published indicating what a new PlayStation VR could feature. Whilst Sony’s R&D is working on a new device, what it’ll look like and how it’ll operate remain to be seen.
This doesn’t help VR developers trying to build cross-platform content as Aldin Dynamics recently noted. For further updates on SIE’s latest VR offerings, keep reading VRFocus.
