Design and Characterization of a Novel, Low-Cost Resistive Stretch Sensor Band for Interactions in HCI Applications

In recent years, Human-Computer Interaction (HCI) technology has progressed significantly toward creating immersive experiences. Yet, the physical interaction within these environments often relies on hand controllers or hand tracking systems using gestures that lack the naturalistic feeling of grasping objects and are computationally expensive, respectively. This study introduces the Resistive Stretch Sensor (RSS) Band, a novel approach to bridging this gap by enabling interactions in HCI through the use of conductive rubber. The RSS is designed as a wearable band that conforms to the user’s forearm, responding to muscle expansion during a full power grasp and release motion. As the RSS band stretches, its resistance value changes, which can be used as input for interactions within a virtual environment. The research characterises the conductive rubber material to determine the optimal RSS band design. The design process of the RSS band is detailed, considering ergonomic factors and the need for reliable and repeatable sensor output. A calibration method is developed to translate resistance changes into accurate input for HCI systems. The study concludes by examining the RSS’s potential applications, such as in human-computer interaction.