Stephen Furner

Haptic virtual reality for blind computer users

This paper describes a series of studies involving a haptic device which can display virtual textures and 3-D objects. The device has potential for simulating real world objects and assisting in the navigation of virtual environments. Three experiments investigated: (a) whether previous results from experiments using real textures could be replicated using virtual textures; (b) whether participants perceived virtual objects to have the intended size and angle; and (c) whether simulated real objects could be recognised. In all the experiments differences in perception by blind and sighted people were also explored. The results have implications for the future design of VEs in that it cannot be assumed that virtual textures and objects will feel to the user as the designer intends. However, they do show that a haptic interface has considerable potential for blind computer users.

Roughness perception in haptic virtual reality for sighted and blind people

Psychophysical functions for perceived roughness, relating ln (magnitude estimate of roughness) to ln (groove width), were obtained for blind and sighted participants in virtual reality using the PHANToM force feedback device. The stimuli were sinusoidal surfaces with groove widths between 0.675 mm and 20.700 mm. Group functions showed a similar nonlinearity to those obtained in physical reality using rigid probes (Klatzky, Lederman, Hamilton, Grindley, & Swendsen, 2003; Lederman, Klatzky, Hamilton, & Ramsay, 1999). Individual functions gave a different picture. Of 23 total participants, there were 13 with wholly descending linear psychometric functions, 7 with quadratic functions similar to the group function, and 3 with anomalous functions. Individual power law exponents showed no significant effects of visual status. All analyses gave a power law exponent close to −0.80. The implications for theories of roughness, methodologies of data analysis, and the design of haptic virtual reality interfaces are considered.

The Haptic Perception of Texture in Virtual Environments: An Investigation with Two Devices

The incorporation of the haptic sense (the combined effects of touch and proprioceptive information) into virtual reality (VR) has considerable potential to enhance the realism of virtual environments and make VR more accessible to blind people. This paper summarises an experiment into the haptic perception of texture in VR conducted with a Phantom haptic device. This experiment was an extension of a previous experiment involving the IE3000 haptic device in a programme of research into haptic perception in VR. On the basis of the reported work guidelines for the creation of haptic environments using textural information for both blind and sighted individuals are presented.

Getting a grip on the problem: learning through computer haptics

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to provide a brief introduction to the exciting area of computer generated touch for professionals in organizational learning and development and identify how it might impact their speciality.Design/methodology/approach – People in the not too distant future will be able to touch, smell and taste, as well as look at and hear, the images on a computer display. This article reviews some of the key features of computer generated images that users can touch and feel, and highlights what these mean for training and personal development.Findings – New forms of sensory communication will open up opportunities to improve accessibility to on‐line services and provide new forms of training more appropriate to the needs of the individual learner while providing greater flexibility of delivery.Originality/value – This paper is of particular value to people who wish to gain an insight into how new and emerging technologies will impact the ways in which organizations will provide ...