British startup Ultrahaptics and automotive supplier HARMAN will work together to create a haptic driver feedback system. While using this device, the driver will be able to push and turn virtual buttons and knobs in mid-air. These motions will send back projected, silent sensations to the user, transmitted through wireless frequencies.
Taking a step back, haptic feedback refers to a certain device that sends a response via motions, forces, and vibrations. For instance, when someone pushes a virtual outline of a button and the display panel reacts with a vibration or sound, the user is given an impression that a physical button was pushed – that’s haptic feedback in action. HARMAN and Ultrahaptics plan to extend the feedback to mid-air communications, relying on the gestures of the driver.
“Haptic feedback in mid-air with gesture recognition is proving to be a very attractive option. HARMAN is an ideal collaborator, as we continue to move towards a technology-driven future. Together, we expect to develop some truly outstanding products,” says Ultrahaptics CEO Steve Cliffe.
As the system continually tracks the hand movements of the driver, it gives mid-air haptic feedback to the motioned commands. An array of small transducers transmit soundwaves below the range detectable to humans between 20 kHz to 40 kHz, rendering the system inaudible.
Along with sensations, this feedback system also provides the driver with a series of silent yet noticeable safety warnings, such as lane departure, blind spot detection, and forward collision. Potentially, arrays of transducers could be situated on multiple sides of the driver, which would allow the non-audible alerts to indicate the direction of the impending hazard.
