New wearable tech creates realistic touch

Northwestern University engineers have created a new technology that creates precise movements to mimic complex tactile sensations

Engineers have created a new wearable technology which mimics a range of complex sensations.

They say the haptic technology, which creates the experience of touch goes beyond previous technologies which are limited to vibrations.

Human skin has all sorts of sensors which detect pressure, vibration, stretching and more.

The researchers at Northwestern University have made a small wireless device which sits on the skin and can produce a range of sensation including vibrations, stretching, pressure, sliding and twisting.

In a study published in the journal Science, the researchers also describe how the device can combine sensations and work fast or slow to create a more realistic sense of touch.

The device is powered by a small rechargeable battery and uses bluetooth technology, so it can connect to smartphones and virtual reality headsets.

The researchers hope the technology can be used for a range of things including for people that are visually impaired, reproducing the feeling of different textures on flat screens for online shopping and allowing people with hearing impairments to 'feel' music.

The study builds on previous work by the engineers in which they designed programmable array of miniature vibrating devices

The device is made up of a tiny magnet and set of wire coils. As electricity flows through the coils, it generates a magnetic field.

This produces a force strong enough to move, push, pull or twist the magnet.

Northwestern's John A. Rogers, who led the device design said: "We think our system could help further close the gap between the digital and physical worlds.

By adding a true sense of touch, digital interactions can feel more natural and engaging."