Abstract:
In this paper we present an innovative haptic device that combines the
electro-tactile stimulation with the force and visual feedbacks in order to
improve the perception of a virtual world. We discuss about the sensation
evoked in a user by the haptic, force, and visual interface provided by this
device, implemented as a special glove, equipped with sensors and actua-
tors connected to a PC. The techniques used to recreate tactile and kines-
thetic sensations are based on an innovative use of cutaneous stimulation
integrated with actuators and 3D modelling techniques. We discuss about
the specificity of haptic interfaces, their controllers, their open problems.
We present results about generating the sensation of touching virtual ob-
jects with our device. Experiments show also that, using a multi-modal
sensorial pattern of stimulation, the subject perceives more realistically
the virtual object. We discuss about possible use of the same technique
as a way to interface intelligent robots.