A Survey on Haptics: Communication, Sensing and Feedback

Abstract

Haptic communications represent a vast area of research focused on integrating the sense of touch into digital sensory experiences. Achieving effective haptic communication requires meticulous design and implementation of all subsystems. As implied by the term, the two primary subsystems are haptic and communication. Haptic refers to replicating the touch sensation in various applications such as augmented reality, virtual reality and teleoperation, and communication involves optimising network structures to transmit and receive haptic information alongside other sensory data. In this survey paper, we discuss both haptic interfaces and network requirements simultaneously. For haptic interfaces, we comprehensively explore the mechanisms of touch perception, haptic sensing, and haptic feedback. We delve into haptic sensing by examining state-of-the-art sensors and approaches to capture data related to touch, such as pressure, force, and motion, and translate these physical interactions into digital data that a haptic system can interpret and respond to. Subsequently, we discuss various methods of achieving haptic feedback, including different mechanical actuators and electrical stimulation. We also investigate the incorporation of artificial intelligence in this field, proposing new areas where it could enhance system performance. Additionally, we address open challenges and future research directions, covering critical issues related to privacy, data transmission, cybersickness, performance and wearability of haptic interface, integrated systems, power supply and evaluation of these devices. Through this interdisciplinary approach, which merges haptic feedback, haptic sensing, and communication, our paper aims to inspire further research and development, ultimately advancing technology and enhancing haptic experiences.