Virtual environment tactile system

Patent · Sun Dec 31 23:00:00 EST 1995

OSTI ID:870735

Renzi, Ronald ^[1]

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1. 90 Arroyo Seco Way, Tracy, San Joaquin County, CA 95376

A method for providing a realistic sense of touch in virtual reality by means of programmable actuator assemblies is disclosed. Each tactile actuator assembly consists of a number of individual actuators whose movement is controlled by a computer and associated drive electronics. When an actuator is energized, the rare earth magnet and the associated contactor, incorporated within the actuator, are set in motion by the opposing electromagnetic field of a surrounding coil. The magnet pushes the contactor forward to contact the skin resulting in the sensation of touch. When the electromagnetic field is turned off, the rare earth magnet and the contactor return to their neutral positions due to the magnetic equilibrium caused by the interaction with the ferrous outer sleeve. The small size and flexible nature of the actuator assemblies permit incorporation into a glove, boot or body suit. The actuator has additional applications, such as, for example, as an accelerometer, an actuator for precisely controlled actuations or to simulate the sensation of braille letters.

• Research Organization: SANDIA CORP
• DOE Contract Number: AC04-94AL85000
• Assignee: Renzi, Ronald (90 Arroyo Seco Way, Tracy, San Joaquin County, CA 95376)
• Patent Number(s): US 5583478
• OSTI ID: 870735
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

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