Overview
- Northwestern University researchers report VoxeLite as the first haptic device to match the sensing abilities of the human fingertip, with findings published November 19 in Science Advances.
- The ultrathin latex patch wraps the fingertip and uses individually controlled micro-nodes to modulate friction and indent the skin through electroadhesion.
- Node spacing was tuned to human acuity with prototypes reaching about 1 millimeter density and user tests at 1.6 millimeters, while actuation rates reached roughly 800 hertz.
- In laboratory evaluations, participants identified directional cues with up to 87% accuracy and recognized real fabrics with about 81% accuracy.
- Weighing less than a gram and designed for passive wear that preserves natural touch, the prototype is being studied for pairing with consumer devices and assistive or VR applications, with no commercial rollout announced.