By Trine Reinholt Andersen, AAU Technology Transfer Office

Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR) technologies have revolutionized the way humans interact with digital environments. However, current AR/VR platforms often face challenges related to control interfaces, user comfort, and accessibility. Many systems are bulky and rely on hand tracking camera systems, controllers, or voice commands, which can be imprecise and cumbersome, limiting their effectiveness in real-world applications. Furthermore, the lack of physical feedback from the interactions and natural movements performed with handheld controllers hinders immersion and usability, making it difficult for users to interact seamlessly with virtual spaces.

NeuraLoop, a research-based company from Aalborg University, seeks to address these limitations by bridging the gap between neural inputs and interactive systems with their new, wearable neural interface.

A ONE-OF-A-KIND COMBINATION PROVIDING A UNIQUE SOLUTION

NeuraLoop is a state-of-the-art compact wearable interface incorporating novel human-machine interaction approaches. Via myoelectric signals it allows the user to employ gestures to interact remotely with a diversity of systems, providing touchless and dexterous natural control in AR/VR environments. In addition, NeuraLoop lets the user feel immersive tactile sensations from the digital system using novel high-resolution haptic feedback.

The innovative system enables users to control external devices using muscle activity while receiving tactile feedback. Hence, providing high-bandwidth bidirectional communication between the user and the host. The interface is integrated on a comfortable textile arm sleeve that translates precise hand and finger movements into machine-readable commands.

The interface is the result of combining several research-based technologies into one compact and unique solution allowing both high-resolution measurement of neuromuscular activity, novel multipoint haptic feedback that allows to feel dynamic sensations, and screen-printing technology for textile integration of sensors and actuators.

NeuraLoop’s innovative interface has a wide range of application areas within AR/VR environments. Not only does the interface improve user experience in gaming, but it also provides new possibilities within rehabilitation for individuals with neuromuscular impairments. As the interface is integrated into a soft textile sleeve, patients can comfortably wear the solution for long periods of time, providing continuous robust control regardless of the arm position. 

NeuraLoop furthermore has the potential to provide real-time performance of muscle activity, eventually functioning as an advanced tracking system for fitness enthusiasts. Due to the versatility of the technology and strategic advantage of textile integration, compared to other solutions, it allows NeuraLoop to be used for motion detection of any given part of the body, thus entering the smart sportswear industry as well.

PIONEERING NEUROTECH WITH 30+ YEARS OF EXPERTISE

The team behind the NeuraLoop is composed by founder, CEO and former PhD student, Luis Pelaez Murciego, Associate Professor Erika G. Spaich, and Professor Strahinja Dosen from the Department of Health Science and Technology at Aalborg University. Together the team accumulate more than 30 years of expertise in the use of bio signals to predict motion intention, as well as in the use of electrotactile stimulation for a variety of purposes such as sensory motor restoration and conveying tactile information.

In 2022, the technology received a 1,5 mio. DKK Innoexplorer grant from Innovation Fund Denmark which allowed the team to develop a fully functional prototype able to decode dexterous hand gestures from the user and provide haptic feedback. 

In 2024, Luis Pelaez Murciego was granted a junior researcher grant from Spin-outs Denmark to support the entrepreneurial journey with NeuraLoop. In 2025, NeuraLoop furthermore received an Innofounder grant to mature the technology further and progress towards initial market penetration.

THE COMMERCIALIZATION PROCESS

The AAU Technology Transfer Office has been part of the initial process of uncovering the potential of the technology, including IP rights, preparing the business plan, budgeting, and supporting the three successful applications for Innoexplorer, Spin-outs Denmark, and Innofounder to strengthen the research team towards the establishment of the company NeuraLoop in 2025. 

The AAU Technology Transfer Office has also facilitated investor pitches and contact to existing companies to strengthen the awareness of NeuraLoop.