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A Dynamically Configurable Surface Based on Shape-Memory Alloy (Sma) Wires for Virtual Reality Applications
Technical Paper
1994-25-0439
Sector:
Event:
ISATA 1994
Language:
English
Abstract
Virtual Environment (VE) technology is predominantly
vision-based, a key missing feature being the feedback of tactile
information. This makes it difficult to apply VE technology to
those applications where the sense of touch predominates, such as
assembly processes.
Consider the problem of feeling a virtual object whilst seeing
the hand moving across it. The concept which is being adopted here
is to immerse the operator in a traditional visual VE system
complemented by a programmable array of tactels. The operator can
reach out, touch and hapticly explore this real surface which is
programmed to correspond to the virtual object seen in the
helmet-mounted display.
Each tactel employs SMA wire to provide the basic actuation to a
spring-loaded plunger. In another embodiment the SMA wire is
connected to a flexible membrane which forms the top surface of a
pressurized container. Feedback control is used in both cases to
give continuous control of wire length. Surface displacements of 6
mm are obtainable from wire lengths of 150 mm.