Traxion: a tactile interaction device with virtual force sensation

Abstract

This paper introduces a new mechanism to induce a virtual force based on human illusory sensations. An asymmetric signal is applied to a tactile actuator consisting of an electromagnetic coil, a metal weight, and a spring, such that the user feels that the device is being pulled (or pushed) in a particular direction, although it is not supported by any mechanical connection to other objects or the ground. The proposed tactile device is smaller (35.0 mm x 5.0 mm x 7.5 mm) and lighter (5.2 g) than any previous force-feedback devices, which have to be connected to the ground with mechanical links. This small form factor allows the device to be implemented in several novel interactive applications, such as a pedestrian navigation system that includes a finger-mounted tactile device or an (untethered) input device that features virtual force. Our experimental results indicate that this illusory sensation actually exists and the proposed device can switch the virtual force direction within a short period. We combined this new technology with visible light transmission via a digital micromirror device (DMD) projector and developed a position guiding input device with force perception.