TacTag- Tactile Feedback Prototype Toolkit
TacTag is an IoT wearable modular device coupled with a web GUI. It is designed for researchers, enabling them to control hardware via the web, modify patterns, log interactions, and store data. By offering diverse tactile sensations and simplifying the design process, it not only lightens the workload but also provides practical evidence for further research. My ultimate goal is to make TacTag universally accessible by breaking down technical barriers and empowering broader participation to explore and innovate with tactile interactions.
The toolkit currently supports six default interactions, such as squeezing, tapping, and trembling, achieved through two types of mechanical modules, each offered with two types of tactors—round and sharp. Users can swap out these components as needed, enhancing flexibility and experimentation. Through this tool, other designers can create their own tactile feedback databases.
Why I Have Interest In Tactile
My interest in tactile was heavily inspired by my background in fintech. Daily interactions with money, especially in an era where subscription models prevail. I rarely check my bank statements, and the usual visual or auditory notifications come with limitations—visual alerts require active observation, and sound alerts lack privacy. This observation led me to ask: Is there any new interface for conveying information? I believe tactile interfaces hold great potential to be a more direct and private way of communication.
Comparison of Tactile, Visual & Auditory Interface
Why Develop This Toolkit
The field of tactile interfaces is emerging, and designers face challenges due to a lack of diverse testing materials and limited user feedback. Most people associate tactile technology with vibration, which is relatively well-developed, but tactile feedback includes a broader range of mechanical stimulations.
The scarcity of specialized testing devices complicates the early design stages, unlike the more accessible vibration motors. TacTag addresses these issues by providing various tactile sensations, easing the design process, and reducing designers' workload. It supports designers in the initial and prototyping stages, allowing them to gather data on user responses to different tactile sensations, which serves as a solid evidential base for refining future tactile designs.
Using It in a Practical Scenario: A Wallet Example
Consider bank accounts and the dynamics of transactions. A direct yet private mode of communication is needed. Perhaps a squeeze could signify a charge to your account, while a tremble could indicate a deposit.
Demo
Wearable Modular Device
The wearable modular device consists of two mechanical modules and four pairs of tactors. The mechanical modules connect to the main body, which is programmed with Arduino, via magnetic connectors. The tactors are mounted onto the mechanical modules using gears and magnets. Designers and end testers can easily swap these components as needed. The device's adjustable band can be worn on the forearm or calf.
The main body of the device features two LEDs indicating network status and command signals, as well as a reporting button that helps remote users and designers confirm the gadget's operational status. It is powered by a 9-volt battery and the device communicates with the web GUI using the MQTT protocol.
About Touch Receptors
Touch receptors are sensory neurons in the skin that respond to mechanical stimulation. Sensitivity varies across different body parts due to receptor density; for example, hands are more sensitive than forearms. Each area has a specific two-point discrimination threshold, determining how well it can differentiate tactile stimuli. For optimal effectiveness on less sensitive areas like the forearm or calf, a device size around 40mm is ideal.
Sketch
Table-grounded Prototype
180-degree Servo Module
Linear Servo Module
Mechanical Module Design
Tactors Design& Test
Tactile Simulation
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Rapid Prototype User Testing
Wearable Prototype
Ergonomic test
Magnetic connector
Web GUI
Users send commands to the device via the web GUI to control the hardware. Currently, the web GUI provides six default sensations along with default pattern data. However, users can adjust different tactile patterns based on usage scenarios and personal sensory experiences, including adjusting the starting and ending angles, speed, number of times, interval between back-and-forth movements(Direction Interval), and interval between multiple rounds(Loop Interval). By customizing, users can explore different sensations to find a tactile experience suitable for specific scenarios.
Patterns can be named and their data saved to the record list. Next time, they can be selected and applied directly from the record list to the hardware. Users can compare different patterns and delete unsuitable ones. Additionally, multiple patterns from the record list can be selected, merged, and applied to the hardware. Testers have the freedom to arrange and combine different patterns, enriching the exploration of tactile sensations for designers and end testers.
