Researchers at the University of Glasgow have developed a system of holograms that, using jets of air, create a sensation of touch on people’s fingers, hands and wrists.
Kids watching Star Trek dreamed of holodecks, teleportation, and immersive 3D projections. Although the ambition of the science fiction story continues to overwhelm reality, holograms are very close to touching thanks to a new discovery made by scientists at the University of Glasgow.
A team of detection technologies and flexible electronics from the center have been able to generate a hologram system using aerohaptics, creating sensations of touch on people’s fingers, hands and wrists thanks to air jets.
This is explained in an article published on The Conversation. The holograms that can be touched and felt they were created with commercially available affordable parts to combine computer generated graphics with carefully directed and controlled jets of air.
It is about going one step further with current virtual reality technology, which uses helmets or goggles to view 3D graphics and smart gloves to provide haptic feedback. Providing a feeling of artificial touch is more natural and can enhance the present.
“Our research uses graphics that provide the illusion of a virtual 3D image. It’s a modern variation on a 19th century illusion technique known as Pepper’s Ghost, which thrilled Victorian spectators with visions of the supernatural on stage.“explains Ravinder Dahiya, author of the article.
Dozens of years ago, illusionism used glass and mirrors to make a two-dimensional image appear to float in space. In this case, haptic feedback is created solely with air, using mirrors in the shape of a pyramid with an open side, in which the user puts his hand.
In this space it is possible interact with computer generated objects that appear to be floating. For this experiment they have used the Unity Game Engine program, famous for creating 3D objects and worlds in video games.
Under the pyramid a sensor tracks the movements of the hands and fingers, while the air nozzle directs jets to generate complex sensations of touch, synchronized in direction and force thanks to the algorithm.
What practical applications could a technology like this have? In tests an interactive projection of a basketball that rolls, bounces and can be touched was carried out convincingly. Users can push it with variable force.
It is a discovery that could offer more immersive gaming experiences, more compelling video conferencing, virtual handshakes, and even better medical treatments. For example, a doctor could see, feel, and discuss the characteristics of a tumor, showing them to his patients.
Next stop: add smell and temperature to holograms
The next step will be to modify the air flow temperature at will to allow users to feel hot or cold surfaces.
From the University of Glasgow they are also exploring the option of improving the virtual illusion by incorporating aromas into these holograms, then perceived with the 5 senses.
This article was published in Business Insider Spain by Andrea Núñez-Torrón Stock.