Summary:
Researchers at the Soft Materials Laboratory at UCLA developed a haptic array with high force displacement output in a patch-like, wearable form.
Background:
Virtual reality (VR) is advancing rapidly and projected to balloon as an industry to over $200 billion by 2029. The success of virtual and augmented reality (AR) is dependent on creating a truly immersive environment for the user. Creating realistic visual stimuli is possible, but other virtual senses remain stunted. Haptic feedback, for example, is a key component of immersion, providing tactile sensations to users, enabling true interaction with the virtual environment. However, advances in haptic devices have not kept pace with VR/AR development. Conventional haptics use mechanically complex actuators, which are limited in their force and displacement output. A device with limited outputs may not accurately simulate the sensation that a user might be expecting, diminishing the realism of the VR experience. Current devices tend to be reliant on auxiliary equipment, as well, hindering the seamless integration of haptic feedback into VR/AR systems. A wearable haptic device that can fully replicate tactile feedback will catapult virtual reality systems to the next level of realism.
Innovation:
UCLA researchers have developed a haptic feedback array in a patch-like form factor that is capable of higher force output and displacement than traditional haptics without the need for secondary operational equipment. This may enhance the overall user experience and allow for more realistic sensations. The haptic devices can be fabricated in different shapes and sizes to create different feedback systems without any increase in manufacturing complexity and while remaining lightweight and wearable. The underlying novel elastomeric material enables large, tunable ranges of critical tactile metrics like device deformability and force output; both of which top out at significantly higher values than current haptic devices.
Potential Applications:
• Feedback mechanisms in virtual reality
• Enhanced accessibility devices
• Remote operation and telepresence
• Wearable consumer technology, i.e. smartwatches
• Space and deep-sea suit enhancement
• Medical Training and Simulation
• Remote Surgery
• Automotive driver assistance systems and in-car entertainment
• Physical Therapy rehabilitation aids
Advantages:
• Large range of force output (5mN to over 400mN)
• Large displacement range (<100 microns to over 1.5mm)
• Light weight, small (thickness <1mm)
• High energy density
• Can be operated even at high frequencies exceeding 25 Hz
• Can be patterned into arrays
• Increased realism of tactile feedback
• Wider array of simulated sensations available
• Enhanced user experience
• Silent operation
State of Development:
The inventors have designed and fabricated haptic arrays of various thicknesses and sizes and demonstrated efficacy, as well as published a peer reviewed manuscript in the journal Science on the underlying technology.
Related Papers:
1. Shi, Ye, et al. "A processable, high-performance dielectric elastomer and multilayering process." Science 377.6602 (2022): 228-232.
2. Gao, Meng, et al. "Skin temperature-triggered, debonding-on-demand sticker for a self-powered mechanosensitive communication system." Matter 4.6 (2021): 1962-1974.
Reference:
UCLA Case No. 2023-203
Lead Inventor:
Qibing Pei, UCLA Professor of Materials Science and Engineering.