Virtalis’ relationship with Geomagic (formerly SensAble) stretches back a long way. Haptic devices provide true 3D input with force feedback, integrating a sense of touch into research and commercial applications, increasing immersion in the virtual environment.

Geomagic haptic devices can accurately measure the 3D spatial position (along the x, y and z axes) and the orientation (pitch, roll and yaw) of the handheld stylus. The devices use motors to create the forces that push back on the user’s hand to simulate touch and interaction with virtual objects. 3DoF (Degrees of Freedom) and 6DoF models are available.

Geomagic haptic devices are used in a broad range of applications, as well as cutting-edge R&D projects, in which intuitive, realistic interaction with the digital world is desired. On several models, the device’s end effectors can be customised to simulate a variety of tools. Virtalis has incorporated Geomagic technology into The Haptic Cow, The Haptic Horse and the virtual touch artefact systems by Touch & Discover Systems.

In addition, Geomagic Haptic Devices are being used in a range of commercial, scientific and research Applications:

Robotic Control
Virtual Assembly
Collision Detection
Training and Skills Assessment
Molecular Modeling
Rehabilitation
Nano Manipulation
3D Modeling
Applications for the Visually Impaired
Entertainment and Virtual Reality
Consumer Product Design

The Geomagic line of haptic devices includes the Geomagic Touch (formerly the Sensable Omni), the Geomagic Touch X (formerly the Sensable Phantom Desktop) and the family of Geomagic Phantom Premium models. There’s a wide array of models vary by workspace size, strength and number of forces, range of motion, position sensing accuracy, inertia and fidelity.

The larger Geomagic Phantom Premium models provide a range of motion equivalent to arm movement pivoting at the elbow or the shoulder. The Phantom Premium line includes two High Force (HF) models and three 6DoF devices; 6DOF devices provide force-feedback on orientation (pitch, roll and yaw) in addition to spatial position.

OPENHAPTICS TOOLKIT
In custom, third-party and R&D applications, Geomagic haptic devices require the use of the OpenHaptics toolkit. This software toolkit gives developers the ability to fully integrate a Geomagic device’s capabilities with 3D applications. At a high level, the toolkit enables Geomagic haptic device support, true 3D navigation, material properties, and polygonal object support for applications already using OpenGL. At lower levels, the toolkit gives developers complete access to sensor readings, device control and direct control of force rendering. A QuickHaptics micro-API is also included to enable rapid development of haptic applications by using the provided example code.

The OpenHaptics toolkit is available at no charge for academic use.

GEOMAGIC TOUCH
The Geomagic Touch delivers a full haptic experience in a cost-effective package. Constructed of durable metal and injection-molded plastics, Geomagic Touch offers 6DoF positional sensing. Additionally, Geomagic Touch allows a high degree of flexibility with a portable design, compact footprint, a removable stylus and two integrated buttons.

GEOMAGIC TOUCH X HAPTIC DEVICE
The award-winning Geomagic Touch X (formerly Sensable Phantom Desktop) pushes haptic capabilities to the next level, providing more precise positioning input and high-fidelity force-feedback output. For 3D modeling and design, surgical training, virtual assembly and other procedures that require a higher degree of precision, Touch X is an easy-to-use, affordable option.

GEOMAGIC PHANTOM PREMIUM
Geomagic Phantom Premium haptic devices vary by force feedback workspace, ranges of motion, stiffness and motor force to accommodate high-level industry and research requirements. Available in a variety of models, Phantom Premium devices provide three or six degrees of force-freedom feedback and some can be fitted with an optional thimble attachment, finger sledge and a range of other end effectors.