Modulating the Perceived Softness of Real Objects Through Wearable Feel-Through Haptics

Area of Science:

• Haptic technology
• Human-computer interaction
• Sensory augmentation

Background:

• Augmented Reality (AR) in vision overlays digital content onto the real world.
• Haptic technology aims to modify tactile sensations without masking real-world perception.
• Existing 'Feel-through' wearable devices for tactile modification are not yet effectively implemented.

Purpose of the Study:

• To introduce a novel Feel-through wearable device for modulating the perceived softness of real objects.
• To demonstrate the ability to alter tactile perception using a fabric-based interaction surface.
• To explore the potential of haptic feedback in creating new sensory experiences.

Main Methods:

• A Feel-through wearable device utilizing a thin fabric as the interaction surface was developed.
• The device modulates the contact area on the user's fingerpad without altering experienced force.
• A lifting mechanism warps the fabric proportionally to the exerted force, controlling perceived softness.

Main Results:

• The system successfully modulated the perceived softness of real objects.
• Different softness perceptions were elicited for the same physical specimens.
• Control over the fabric's contact area and stretching state influenced tactile perception.

Conclusions:

• The presented Feel-through wearable offers a new method for modulating perceived object softness.
• This technology represents a significant step towards implementing effective haptic feedback systems.
• The ability to control tactile perception opens possibilities for enhanced virtual and augmented reality experiences.