Disney Research has developed a tactile feedback system based on a vortex cannon.

Although the interfaces that allow computer control with gestures, such as Kinect, are fairly widespread, they still do not provide tactile feedback. Objects on the computer screen can be controlled, but you can not touch them. Research in this direction has been going on for quite some time, for example, in Japan , a device has been created that allows one to sense the touch of virtual objects using ultrasound. Disney Research took a different path . Their prototype, called AIREAL, is based on an interesting aerodynamic effect - the formation of a stable toroidal vortex at the exit of the air chamber with a round hole with a sharp increase in pressure inside. A device that produces such vortices is called a "vortex cannon." In the simplest case, it is a cardboard box with a round window.



The Disney Research prototype is a small plastic box with a swivel nozzle, a video camera for tracking hands or a human head, and five membranes that work as diffusers for low-frequency speakers. Membranes can generate up to several tens of pulses per second, creating a feeling of light touches. Several such boxes can be placed around the user, allowing him to be surrounded by touches from all sides. By varying the strength and frequency of the pulses, you can create different tactile sensations, including sensations from touching different materials - smooth or rough, hard or soft.
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Almost the entire prototype - the body, the flexible nozzle, the hinge - is printed on a 3D printer. The speed of the funnel is about seven meters per second. In addition to interacting with the user himself, with the help of AIREAL, you can even move small objects - a virtual explosion or gust of wind may well blow off a small sheet of paper from the table. AIREAL is expected to be used in games, entertainment, and general-purpose interfaces. Developers' plans for the future - miniaturization of the device and noise reduction (so far, the prototype produces quiet clicks at work). Available article (PDF) with a detailed description of the technology.