Shape Haptics is a new approach for designers to rapidly design and fabricate passive force feedback mechanisms for physical interfaces.
Passive (unpowered) haptic mechanisms are found in objects and devices all around us—and they are challenging to design. Shape Haptics abstracts and broadens the expression of this class of haptic mechanisms.
Shape Haptics mechanisms consist of 2D laser cut parts fabricated from POM plastic. They comprise a compliant spring structure that engages with a sliding profile during interaction. By shaping the sliding profile, designers can easily customize the haptic force feedback delivered by the mechanism.
We demonstrate how Shape Haptics can be applied to a variety of applications, including changing the haptics of existing objects and interfaces, as well as building new interactive systems. We also developed a sandbox for others to explore and fabricate their own Shape Haptics mechanisms.
Clement Zheng, Han Bo, Vivien Tan, Luke Goh, Mok Zijie
2021 Research Internship, Keio-NUS CUTE Center
Introduction video
Edge profile vs Force displacement curve
Applications
Process
My contribution lies in the delrin spring fabrication of the system, which is responsible for returning the force in the backstroke motion. Using the parametric design capabilities of Fusion360, I had to alter and design the spring to reduce its overall size, while retaining a usable compression distance. Tinkering with the laser cutter to obtain the right power x frequency settings was also critical to ensure minimal XYZ axis warping of the spring to ensure minimal frictional drag encountered within the spring enclosure. At the end of my time in the program, I managed to shrink the spring system by 50%, while reducing warping caused by the heat-induced by the laser cutter.
