A Proof of Concept Integrated Multi-systems Approach for Large Scale Tactile Feedback in VR

摘要

It is well understood that multi-sensory stimulation can be used to enhance immersion in virtual environments such as Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR). State of the art VR technologies have enhanced visual stimulation in aspects such as pixel density in recent years, whilst the area of haptics has remained less developed. The Ultrahaptics Evaluation Kit is a relatively new technology that consists of a 16 × 16 array of ultrasound transducers used to create ultrasound haptic sensations. We have developed a proof of concept large scale haptic system by integrating this device with an HTC VIVE, Leap Motion and Rethink Robotics' Baxter Robot to provide ultrasound haptic feedback in a volume greater than 1.5 m~3 for VR users. The system was evaluated through a user study with 19 participants. The study focused on users' assessments of the location of the haptics produced by the system. The results of the study offer a means of validating the system, as well as providing comparisons in accuracy for a haptic perception task vs a visual perception task. There have been opportunities recognised for improving accuracy of the system. However, the system has been deemed suitable in creating haptic feedback for low fidelity models within large volumes in VR.