Simple tactile technologies utilizing human tactile and haptic characteristics

Abstract

Human tactile and haptic characteristics promote the development of tactile devices that are simple and effective. In addition, issues and ideas for tactile devices can be found from present needs and conditions of manufacturing and medical fields. This chapter presents tactile technologies that are based on human tactile and haptic characteristics. First, wearable and hand-held tactile sensors, tactile enhancing devices without an electronic element, and tactile sensing with a human finger are introduced. They were developed for surface irregularity inspections and texture evaluations. Then, a palpation system with sensory feedback for laparoscopic surgery is introduced. Finally, tactile design based on tactile illusion is introduced. It can combine a hard material and soft feel. These tactile technologies utilize the human haptic ability and structural enhancing mechanism, and human tactile perception.