Editorial: design of haptic user-interfaces and applications

Abstract

This special issue focuses on the design of haptic (touchbased) user-interfaces and applications. Devices that provide haptic feedback are increasingly being used in all manner of applications to provide an improved dialogue between a computer interface and a user. The use of the sense of touch allows a new range of applications to be targeted, and for existing interactions to take new forms. The scope of haptic applications now looks set to grow further, with the release of significantly lower cost haptic devices within the price range of individuals or small institutions. Much of the work in the area until now has been on the engineering of devices and perceptual issues, both fundamental to the development of the topic. However, we are now at a stage where we can begin to think about how best to design haptic interfaces, interactions and experiences from a user’s point of view. This is crucial if we are to get users to accept and use haptic technology. There is also a need to develop heuristics and guidelines for the use of haptics to allow new groups of developers and designers to create effective haptic experiences. This special issue begins to explore the relationships between haptic devices, human perception and computer applications.