Non-contact Method for Producing Tactile Sensation Using Airborne Ultrasound

Takayuki Iwamoto, Mari Tatezono, and Hiroyuki Shinoda

Department of Information Physics and Computing Graduate School of Information Science and Technology The University of Tokyo Eng.Bldg.6, 7-3-1, Hongo, Bunkyo Ward, Tokyo, Japan {iwa,tatezono,shino}@alab.t.u-tokyo.ac.jp http://www.alab.t.u-tokyo.ac.jp/∼ iwa

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Summary:

The article presents a tactile device that produces 3D stress fields combined with a stereoscopic display to provide 3D tactile feedback for interacting with 3D visual objects. With developments in graphics, physical stimulation and display technology. There is a demand for haptic devices that integrate sight and touch.

Current devices enable the visualization and handling of 3D objects. In addition to this, the ability to physically sense them would enrich the experience. Constant contact systems are not very effective as there is never an absence of touch. Robot systems of feedback are bulky, non portable, and difficult to set up. This paper will present an airborne ultrasonic alternative which has a high temporal and spatial resolution.

The apparatus consists of an array of 96 ultrasonic transducers which are grouped into 12 sets. These are arranged in rings where each members is equidistant from the center of the array. They are able to be used directly on the skin where the cumulative force can be focussed to a point.

The most effective stimulation was obtained through bursts of ultrasonic sound. Continuous activation resulted in only the onset of sound being perceived. 20mm spatial resolution was achieved but the ultrasonic array lacked sufficient strength for a continuous pressure to be perceived.

Discussion:

An interesting approach, where tactile feedback can be applied without continuous contact. This setup does not allow for 2D phase control of the array which would permit the point of focus to be manipulated.

There are many possible applications where feedback would be beneficial as it is non intrusive and does not require anything to be worn. As the array is fixed in space the feedback is anchored to a particular position, similar to real objects.