Abstract: Embodiments include an electronic control unit comprising an audio input device for receiving an audio stream from an external audio source, the audio stream being split between an audio path and a haptic path; a wireless transceiver in the haptic path for transmitting the audio stream to at least one wearable haptic device using short-range wireless communication; and a processor coupled to the transceiver and configured to calculate an amount of latency associated with transmission of the audio stream to the wearable haptic device(s), and partition the audio stream into a plurality of audio packets including a time-to-play based on the calculated latency. The control unit further includes a buffer in the audio path for inserting a time delay into the audio stream based on the calculated latency, and an audio output device in the audio path for outputting the time-delayed audio stream to an external audio listening device.

Abstract: The present disclosure relates to a modular sensory immersion system including one or more panels that introduce the tactile component of audio vibration from multi-media formats into the various surface areas of the human body, while synchronized with audio to the ears. In certain embodiments, the modular sensory immersion system also delivers a range of additional haptic and multi-sensory stimuli synchronized to audio and audio-visual content. In one embodiment, each panel houses vibrating transducers and associated electronics to deliver the audio synchronized force feedback vibrations, as well as the mechanical components associated with the delivery air busts of ambient or heated/cooled variety, water streams and mists, fragrances, and solid or semi solid projectiles. The system can be used as a single interactive panel, as a multi-panel platform, or a multi-panel platform with attached paneled walls that deliver all of the above mentioned sensory stimuli.

Abstract: Methods of enhancing a sensory experience to simulate a live event are provided. One includes providing an audible signal representing sound information; generating a vibration signal based on the audible signal and enhanced information that would be present at the live event; and providing the vibration signal to at least one vibration device for stimulating nerve receptors in a foot area, the vibration signal synchronized with the audible signal to produce a perception in the brain of being present at the live event. Another method includes generating a vibration signal representing vibrations including tactile vibrations for stimulating nerve receptors in a foot to simulate being present at a live event, and vibrations based on reproduced sound information; and providing the signal to at least one vibration device for delivering the vibrations to the feet, the tactile vibrations based on enhanced information different from the sound information and including non-audible elements.

Abstract: A haptic transducer is provided, comprising a motor including a yoke, an inner cavity formed by the yoke, and a magnet assembly disposed within the inner cavity; a diaphragm disposed above the magnet assembly; a suspension extending concentrically around the diaphragm and having an inner edge attached to the diaphragm and an outer edge attached to the yoke; a cylindrical coil coupled to the diaphragm and suspended within the inner cavity around the magnet assembly; a first hole extending through the motor; and a second hole axially aligned with the first hole and extending through the diaphragm, a fastener extending through the first hole into the second hole. A footplate system is also provided, comprising a footplate configured for placement in a piece of footwear; a moving motor transducer configured to transfer haptic sensations to the footplate; and a top fastener configured to secure the haptic transducer to the footplate.