A Haptic Device for Tennis Simulation: Dual-Flywheel System for Rendering Virtual Impact

This paper introduces a haptic feedback device for tennis simulation, designed to provide realistic physical sensations of ball impact through interaction with a virtual racket model. The system integrates with a Unity-based virtual setup where users are visually immersed in a virtual tennis court, complete with a racket, ball machine, and tennis balls. This system builds on immersive haptic technologies, such as those exemplified by the Nintendo Wii, which introduced real-time tactile feedback for interactive gaming. Unlike previous systems, this device incorporates a mechanical interface that replicates the sensation of a tennis ball striking the racket. As the user plays, the ball’s collision with the racket is simulated and mapped to an impedance-type kinesthetic response. The system generates real-time physical feedback, enabling users to experience the sensation of ball impact, enhancing the realism of virtual tennis gameplay.The haptic racket is designed to enable users to distinguish between impact forces at high and low accelerations, providing clear feedback during virtual gameplay. The system was developed with the goal of minimizing the delay between virtual collisions and the corresponding haptic effects; however, a slight delay remains noticeable. While the racket aims to replicate the feel of a real tennis racket, its resemblance is more apparent at lower accelerations, where the feedback aligns more closely with typical racket behavior.This system employs a single-function design, a paradigm ideal for specialized applications like gaming peripherals, where focused functionality enhances realism, immersion, and user experience compared to general-purpose devices.