Analysis of Product Architectures of Pin Array Technologies for Tactile Displays

Refreshable tactile displays based on pin array technologies have a significant impact on the education of children with visual impairments, but they are prohibitively expensive. To better understand their design and the reason for the high cost, we created a database and analyzed the product architectures of 67 unique pin array technologies from literature and patents. We qualitatively coded their functional elements and analyzed the physical parts that execute the functions. Our findings highlight that pin array surfaces aim to achieve three key functions, i.e., raise and lower pins, lock pins, and create a large array. We also contribute a concise morphological chart that organises the various mechanisms for these three functions. Based on this, we discuss the reasons for the high cost and complexity of these surface haptic technologies and infer why larger displays and more affordable devices are not available. Our findings can be used to design new mechanisms for more affordable and scalable pin array display systems

Design and development of new tactile softness displays for minimally invasive surgery

Despite an influential shortcoming of minimally invasive sugary (MIS), which is the lack of tactile feedback to the surgeon, MIS has increasingly been used in various types of surgeries. Restoring the missing tactile feedback, especially information which can be obtained by the palpation of tissue, such as detection of embedded lump and softness characterization is important in MIS. The present study aims to develop tactile feedback systems both graphically and physically. In graphical rendering approach, the proposed system receives signals from the previously fabricated piezoelectric softness sensors which are integrated with an MIS grasper. After processing the signals, the tactile information is displayed by means of a color coding method. Using the graphical images, the softness of the grasped objects can visually be differentiated. A physical tactile display system is also designed and fabricated. This system simulates non-linear material properties of different soft objects. The system consists of a linear actuator, force and position sensors and processing software. A PID controller is used to control the motion of a linear actuator according to the properties of the simulated material and applied force. Graphical method was also examined to render the tactile information of embedded lumps within a soft tissue/object. The necessary information on the size and location of the hidden features are collected using sensorized MIS graspers. The information is then processed and graphically rendered to the surgeon. Using the proposed system surgeons can identify presence, location and approximate size of hidden lumps by grasping the target object with a reasonable accuracy. Finally, in order to determine the softness of the grasped object, another novel approach is taken by the design and fabrication of a smart endoscopic tool equipped with sensors for measuring the applied force and the angle of the grasper jaws. Using this method, the softness/compliance of the grasped object can be estimated and presented to the surgeo

Designing a New Tactile Display Technology and its Disability Interactions

People with visual impairments have a strong desire for a refreshable tactile interface that can provide immediate access to full page of Braille and tactile graphics. Regrettably, existing devices come at a considerable expense and remain out of reach for many. The exorbitant costs associated with current tactile displays stem from their intricate design and the multitude of components needed for their construction. This underscores the pressing need for technological innovation that can enhance tactile displays, making them more accessible and available to individuals with visual impairments. This research thesis delves into the development of a novel tactile display technology known as Tacilia. This technology's necessity and prerequisites are informed by in-depth qualitative engagements with students who have visual impairments, alongside a systematic analysis of the prevailing architectures underpinning existing tactile display technologies. The evolution of Tacilia unfolds through iterative processes encompassing conceptualisation, prototyping, and evaluation. With Tacilia, three distinct products and interactive experiences are explored, empowering individuals to manually draw tactile graphics, generate digitally designed media through printing, and display these creations on a dynamic pin array display. This innovation underscores Tacilia's capability to streamline the creation of refreshable tactile displays, rendering them more fitting, usable, and economically viable for people with visual impairments