Who we are
Haptics Research Group (HRG) is a group of researchers, designers, SME’s, tinkerers, makers, pilots, inventors that have developed a haptics technology that will revolutionize the Virtual Reality world.
Larry James Principal
Larry James has spent over 40 years in R&D and product development, solving complex technical challenges across medical devices, conductive polymers, medical ultrasound, laser guidance, fiber optics, and more. He was the key inventor behind the rotary motion technology in the Sonicare toothbrush, demonstrating his ability to turn innovative ideas into impactful products.
His career has spanned prototype shops, production floors, and high-tech labs, where he’s tackled everything from aircraft design and race car aerodynamics to materials processing. A natural problem solver, Larry thrives in bridging cutting-edge research with real-world applications.
Most recently, Larry has been at the forefront of VR haptics, developing advanced solutions that bring a sense of touch to virtual environments. His journey into the field began at Meta Reality Labs (MRL), where he contributed to targeted haptic solutions for their Metaverse platform. After three years, he launched his own VR haptic technology initiatives, focusing on real-world applications such as training simulators. His pioneering work in haptic gloves is backed by a robust patent, laying the groundwork for advancements across multiple industries.
Prior to MRL, Larry owned and operated New Concepts, a Seattle-based machine shop and prototyping business, where he honed his ability to bring ideas from concept to reality.
Outside of the lab, Larry is an avid pilot, often found in his hangar in Everett’s Paine Field, Washington. His passion for precision and performance extends into the skies- he is also a champion aerobatic pilot.
Daniel Hammer Principal
Daniel Hammer is a distinguished U.S. Marine Corps retiree with over 36 years of extensive experience in Department of Defense contractor support roles, aircrew training management, aviation training systems development, and maintenance training development. His comprehensive background allows him to deliver effective solutions for clients seeking strategic training program development.
Currently, Mr. Hammer serves as a Training Systems Subject Matter Expert (SME) at Haptics Research Group (HRG), where he brings his expertise in training systems development to support innovative research in haptics technology.
Before joining HRG, Mr. Hammer worked at Legend Flyers in Everett, Washington, from 2018 to 2023. During this time, he played a key role in restoring and rebuilding vintage World War II aircraft. As both a pilot and mechanic, he helped bring these historic aircraft back to flying condition, contributing to aviation museums across the country.
From 2007 to 2018, Mr. Hammer was a Program Manager at General Dynamics Information Technology (2007 – 2009) and StraCon Services Group (2009 – 2018), where he supported a variety of DoD initiatives, including the Digital Thread Integration program. He managed the integration and deployment of Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) systems for NAVAIR and the Unmanned Carrier Aviation programs. Mr. Hammer held leadership roles across major weapons systems program offices within NAVAIR, including Air 4.5X, AIR 4.11, PMA-242, PMA-205, PMA-261, and PMA-268. Notably, as Project Manager for Air 4.5X Special Surveillance Programs (SSP).
From 1987 to 2007, Mr. Hammer was an active duty U.S. Marine CH-53A/D/E Helicopter Crewchief, Mechanic and Weapons and Tactics Instructor.
Stephen Hooper Principal
Stephen Hooper is a seasoned design leader with a track record of building and scaling high-performing design teams across multiple industries, including healthcare, consumer products, and advanced technology. His career has taken him from designing coffee and espresso makers to leading innovations in battlefield medical technology, VR/AR haptics, and AI-driven breast cancer diagnostics.
Currently, Steve is working with Haptics Research Group (HRG), helping define and develop next-generation haptic gloves for VR/AR. He has also led the early-stage development of an AI-powered breast cancer diagnostic device, assembling and guiding a cross-disciplinary team from concept to prototype. In addition to his hands-on work in innovation, he actively mentors and coaches design leaders within various corporations, helping shape the next generation of design leadership.
Previously, as Head of Design for 3M’s Healthcare Business Group, Steve grew the team from a small UX and industrial design group to over 60 members, adding expertise in design research, brand design, service design, and design operations. Before 3M, he co-founded elemental8, an award-winning product development consultancy, after acquiring and rebranding designafairs USA from Siemens. His leadership at elemental8 spanned industrial design, UX/UI, design strategy, and product innovation across industries ranging from consumer electronics and enterprise solutions to medical devices and industrial equipment.
Steve holds several patents and has been recognized with numerous industry awards, including BusinessWeek/IDEA, ID Magazine, GOOD Design, iF/Hannover, and MDDI. He previously served on the advisory board for Western Washington University’s Industrial Design program and is a frequent speaker on design strategy, product definition, and innovation leadership.
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