I am investigating if a 3d Pointer and haptic-feedback device, like the \$250 Novint Falcon. Would allow the user to "grab" and object in an assembly, and feel its freedom of movement.  I am aware of the zSpace company, with their stereoscopic display and pointer, but their device is without any sort of force feedback.

I corresponded with Novint about the Falcon, and they say said they don't know of any CAD design software that is designed to work with their device.  But, he did suggest the possibility of making an interface using their SDK.

I have no experience doing anything like this.  I only have some Visual Basic programming experience. Before I consider diving in, perhaps someone can advise me if the type of "hooks" I would need in SolidWorks are even available for an interface. I.e. is the SolidWorks able to give feedback to other software if a user has "touched" an object?

Thanks for the input,
Joe Dunfee