ShoeSoleSense: proof of concept for a wearable foot interface for virtual and real environments

Abstract

ShoeSoleSense is a proof of concept, novel body worn interface - an insole that enables location independent hands-free interaction through the feet. Forgoing hand or finger interaction is especially beneficial when the user is engaged in real world tasks. In virtual environments as moving through safety training applications is often conducted via finger input, which is not very suitable. To enable a more intuitive interaction, alternative control concepts utilize gesture control, which is usually tracked by statically installed cameras in CAVE-like-installations. Since tracking coverage is limited, problems may also occur. The introduced prototype provides a novel control concept for virtual reality as well as real life applications. Demonstrated functions include movement control in a virtual reality installation such as moving straight, turning and jumping. Furthermore the prototype provides additional feedback by heating up the feet and vibrating in dedicated areas on the surface of the insole.