A study at UC Santa Barbara (UCSB) revealed a phenomenon affecting the spatial precision and clarity of tactile sensations in holographic haptic displays used for VR and telepresence.
The researchers used high-resolution optical imaging, simulations, and perception experiments to study ultrasound-excited waves in the skin during haptic holography interactions.
Holographic displays excite shock wave patterns in the skin that can interfere with each other, reducing the spatial precision and clarity of the tactile sensation.
- The shock waves are formed when ultrasound waves are concentrated and scanned in mid-air, causing vibrations in the skin.
- The current shock wave patterns are too spread out.
- New developments in acoustics are needed to improve the design of haptic holographic displays.
- Researchers hope that comprehending the physics of ultrasound-generated shock waves in the skin can make haptic displays more realistic for users.
- This would enable users to interact with virtual objects more tangibly, according to UCSB.
