Cornell University’s Organic Robotics Lab has created a new method of delivering haptic responses in virtual reality – using a flexible rubber sheet on a handheld controller with a pneumatic response system to provide tactile feedback.

A step up from current haptic technology used in most handheld gaming devices, which vibrate at different strengths depending on on-screen actions, the new Omnipulse technology offers a responsive and immersive experience.

The thin rubber attachment – which uses pneumatic air pockets to create haptic feedback – can be attached to existing controllers such as the Oculus Touch, gloves and haptic suits.

Footage from the Organic Robotics Lab shows prototype demonstrations capable of replicating sensations including the firing of a gun, striking an object with another object or even punching something.

There have been several approaches to addressing haptic technology, including a wearable exoskeleton hand making it possible for users to physically touch things in a digital world. That model, dubbed Dexmo, can communicate with VR items, simulating the feel of virtual objects using haptic feedback as though the user is touching or holding the items with their hands. Both haptic technologies are currently under development.