An integrated tactile/shear feedback array for stimulation of finger mechanoreceptor

VR and telepresence applications have placed increasing demands on the need for effective user interfaces. To date most of the interfaces have emphasised the use of visual and audio effects but tactile feedback has been identified as a leading feature for future systems where there will be an increased desire to truly interact with the virtual/remote world rather than being observational. The paper focuses on the cutaneous aspects of tactile feedback describing the design and construction of pneumatically powered tactile and shear feedback modules. It is shown that by incorporating a range of novel features into this design it is possible to stimulate all the mechano-receptive nerves (SAI, SAII, RAI, and RAII) with localised signals from DC to 400 Hz. All this is shown in a fully integrated, ultra-light and comfortable package. The design control and performance results are all presented.