Virtual Texture Generated using Elastomeric Conductive Block Copolymer in Wireless Multimodal Haptic Glove.

Haptic devices are in general more adept at mimicking the bulk properties of materials than they are at mimicking the surface properties. This paper describes a haptic glove capable of producing sensations reminiscent of three types of near-surface properties: hardness, temperature, and roughness. To accomplish this mixed mode of stimulation, three types of haptic actuators were combined: vibrotactile motors, thermoelectric devices, and electrotactile electrodes made from a stretchable conductive polymer synthesized in our laboratory.

Healable Thermoplastic for Kinesthetic Feedback in Wearable Haptic Devices.

The word "haptics" refers to technologies designed to stimulate the tactile and kinesthetic senses. Kinesthesia-the sense of motion-is triggered by imposing forces upon the joints, tendons, and muscles to recreate the geometry and stiffness of objects, as may be useful in physical therapy or virtual reality. Here, we introduce a form of kinesthetic feedback by manipulating the mechanical properties of spandex impregnated with a thermoplastic polymer.