Scientists test haptic belt and hand gestures to pilot drones blindfolded

Researchers at Jeonbuk National University have developed a wearable system that lets pilots control drones without needing to look at a screen. It combines hand gestures for commands with a vibrating belt around the abdomen that provides haptic feedback about the drone's 3D position, allowing for preliminary non-visual control.

The goal is to make drone operation more intuitive and less attention-intensive, freeing pilots to focus on their surroundings instead of a monitor. This early-stage research demonstrates a promising alternative to traditional visual interfaces, potentially improving safety and situational awareness for drone pilots in complex environments. The system represents a novel step toward more immersive and responsive human-drone interaction.