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Core77 Recognizes F1 Hand Controller Project

Haptic Controller Bridges the Gap Between Human Input and Teleoperated Robotics

June 25, 2025

Core77 logo

Core77 has announced the honorees of its annual Design Awards. Among them is ID’s project, “F1 Hand Controller,” which was recognized in the Interactions category.

Graduate student Faysal Biobaku developed the F1 Hand Controller prototype with ID faculty member Marty Thaler and partner Fluid Reality.

Recognizing that traditional remote control systems often leave operators disconnected from the physical reality of the robotic interactions, the ID team leveraged Fluid Reality’s cutting-edge haptic technology. Users of the F1 Haptic Controller experience precise tactile sensations that correspond to a robot’s actions and encounters.

The impact of this device could fundamentally change how we interact with teleoperated systems. Operators can now feel the textures and resistances their robots encounter, enabling more intuitive and precise control.
—Martin Thaler, Associate Teaching Professor, Institute of Design
Typical robotic hand with limited capabilities

Typical robotic hand with limited capabilities

Early prototype developed in ID's Idea Shop

Early prototype developed in ID's Idea Shop

The project exemplifies ID’s commitment to developing solutions that push technological boundaries while maintaining a focus on human needs and experiences.

As teleoperation continues to grow across industries, the F1 conceptual prototype is leading to the next evolution in hand controller design. The ID team and Fluid Reality are currently collaborating on the next generation of the concept, which Fluid Reality will then advance commercially.

We didn't just want to create another controller—we wanted to transform how humans and robots interact. Each prototype brought us closer to that goal.
—Faysal Biobaku (MDes 2025)
Rendering, F1 controller side view

Rendering, F1 controller side view

Rendering, F1 left and right hand controllers

Rendering, F1 left and right hand controllers

Rendering, F1 back view

Rendering, F1 back view

The Core77 Design Awards celebrate the richness of the design profession as well as the insight and perseverance of its practitioners. The program offers both students and professionals the opportunity to promote their best work on a global scale.

The jury team for the Interaction category was led by Jodi Cutler, senior design director at H-E-B. The Jury also included Adriana Morales, Design Principal at H-E-B; Maui Francis, UX Manager & Design Lead at Google; and Kathryn Marinaro, Creative Director at argodesign. The category included interactive content and user interface design for websites, mobile devices and experiential installations, as well as software, mobile apps, interactive projections, products with embedded user interfaces, animations, simulations, and robotics.

Learn more about this project.