A novel ultrasonic haptic device induces touch sensations with potential applications in neuroscience research

Abstract

Haptic devices can bring a sense of touch to virtual interactions, with substantial benefits for communication and health. Mid-air ultrasound can generate acoustic radiation forces for tailored tactile sensations - 'touch without touching'. To study the neuroscience of haptics, devices must be compatible with neural monitors. In this study, electromagnetic shielding with a Faraday was created. Our device creates a palpable focus of ultrasound with sufficient spatial resolution (5 mm diameter) and radiation pressure (1.56 or 1.76 Pa without or with Faraday cage lid, respectively) to stimulate small areas of skin. Magnetometer measurements showed minimal field strength variability around the system. Therefore, the proposed system could be compatible with neurological monitoring for neuroscience studies.