Volumetric haptic display


A volumetric haptic display is similar to a volumetric display, but informs touch instead of vision. A VHD projects a touch-based representation of a surface onto a 3D volumetric space. Users can feel the projected surface, usually with their hands. The display is otherwise not detectable, and offers no visual feedback. There are no known instances of a fully operational VHD at this time.

Technological implementation

The University of Bristol has developed a method for haptic feedback that could be integrated into a volumetric display. The system uses focused ultrasound to create a haptic object in mid air.

Feedback

The following feedback can be provided to the user:
  • Surface contact
  • Surface texture
  • Vibration
  • Motion-based/topological changes of surface