Shape Haptics



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.

Authors
Clement Zheng
Yong Zhen Zhou
Lin Hongnan
Hyunjoo Oh
Yen Ching-Chiuan

Assistants
Luke Goh
Vivien Tan

CHI 2022
Paper
Shape Haptics Sandbox










Shape Haptics sliders: the different edge profiles result in different force displacement curves.



Shape Haptics applications: modifying the haptics of everyday objects and interfaces, or constructing new devices.




The Shape Haptics sandbox enables designers to author different haptic profiles. The sandbox then generates all the necessary fabrication drawings for laser cutting.






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