Sensors and actuators for HCI and VR : a few case studies

Abstract

This paper discusses the role of sensors and actuators in Human–Computer Interaction and Virtual Reality. We first introduce the need of sensory input and output and the user senses stimulation. We then present two experiences of immersive games with a comparison of the techniques 20 years ago and today and also discuss the importance of vision-based hand tracking. The main part of the paper is dedicated to haptic and tactile feedbacks with 4 different case studies: haptic feedback using a haptic workstation, a wearable system for mobility improvement of visually impaired people, a system for enhancing pilot performance, and actuators to feel the wind. Finally, we survey a few smart jackets with sensors and actuators.