This Glove Uses Echolocation and Haptic Feedback Underwater
Katherine Pendrill — January 21, 2016 — Tech
References: aisencaro & fastcoexist
The 'IrukaTact' is a pair of haptic search gloves that helps humans see like a dolphin underwater. While underwater cameras give us a glimpse of the ocean floor, this device goes beyond the limits of visual technology.
Unlike traditional diving gloves, the IrukaTact uses echolocation and haptic feedback to extend the wearer's sense of touch underwater. The search gloves are able to communicate touch through the use of a tiny ultrasonic rangefinder located in the palm of the hand. When an object is detected, the device triggers a pump that uses water pressure to send haptic feedback to the wearer's fingertips. The pressure is used to communicate the size of the object and how far away it is from the diver. As a result, the technology allows divers to extend their sense of touch beyond the length of their arms.
While the new technology could be used for many different purposes, it is particularly useful for underwater rescue missions during which the water may be too cloudy for a diver to see clearly.
Unlike traditional diving gloves, the IrukaTact uses echolocation and haptic feedback to extend the wearer's sense of touch underwater. The search gloves are able to communicate touch through the use of a tiny ultrasonic rangefinder located in the palm of the hand. When an object is detected, the device triggers a pump that uses water pressure to send haptic feedback to the wearer's fingertips. The pressure is used to communicate the size of the object and how far away it is from the diver. As a result, the technology allows divers to extend their sense of touch beyond the length of their arms.
While the new technology could be used for many different purposes, it is particularly useful for underwater rescue missions during which the water may be too cloudy for a diver to see clearly.
Trend Themes
1. Underwater Haptic Technology - The IrukaTact search gloves demonstrate the potential for haptic technology to enhance touch perception underwater.
2. Extended Sensory Capabilities - By combining echolocation and haptic feedback, the IrukaTact gloves offer divers the ability to extend their sense of touch beyond arm's reach.
3. Enhanced Underwater Rescue Tools - The IrukaTact gloves present a disruptive innovation opportunity to revolutionize underwater rescue missions by providing haptic feedback in low-visibility conditions.
Industry Implications
1. Marine Exploration - The IrukaTact gloves have the potential to revolutionize marine exploration by allowing divers to perceive underwater objects through touch.
2. Underwater Robotics - The haptic technology showcased by the IrukaTact gloves can be incorporated into underwater robotics to improve their perception and dexterity for precise tasks.
3. Safety and Rescue Services - The haptic search gloves can significantly enhance the capabilities of safety and rescue services by enabling divers to locate and assess objects under challenging underwater conditions.
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