Haply

About Haply

Haply Robotics, a Montréal-based company founded in 2017 by Colin Gallacher, Steve Ding, and Felix Desourdy, operates at the intersection of robotics and human-computer interaction by developing haptic feedback technology. The founders' backgrounds are deeply rooted in relevant fields; Gallacher holds a Master's in Mechatronics from McGill University, Ding's expertise is in electrical engineering and AI, and Desourdy specializes in advanced manufacturing and product design. Their collective experience at institutions like the National Research Council Canada, where they worked on projects including a neurosurgical simulator, directly informed the company's direction.

The company's business model centers on the design, manufacture, and sale of its haptic devices. It targets sectors such as medical training, gaming, 3D design, and industrial robotics. Revenue is generated through direct hardware sales and collaborations with partners like FundamentalVR and PickNik Robotics to integrate Haply's technology into broader simulation and control platforms. Haply also fosters a developer community by providing open-access APIs, encouraging the integration of its technology into diverse applications.

Haply's flagship product line includes the Inverse3 and its successor, the Inverse3X, which are portable, high-precision 3D mice that provide force feedback. These devices allow users in virtual environments to physically feel sensations like pressure and resistance, simulating actions such as cutting tissue in a surgical training module or sculpting a 3D model. The Inverse3 is noted for its portability and affordability compared to larger, more expensive haptic systems. The device features up to 0.01mm resolution and supports multiple programming languages to facilitate custom application development. Recently, the company introduced the MinVerse, a more compact '3D touch mouse' aimed at a broader audience, which won a CES 2025 'Best of Innovation' award.

Since its inception, Haply has achieved several key milestones, including securing a $4.8 million CAD seed funding round in March 2023, led by BDC Capital's Deep Tech Venture Fund. This funding is intended to advance the development of its haptic technology for medical gamification, robotic control, and 3D interfaces. The company has also received grants and support from Innovative Solutions Canada and the McGill University Health Centre.