Abstract: The present invention provides a method of generating haptic interface experiences that is capable of generating haptic companions to existing two-dimensional images. The method exploits the dominance of visual over haptic in humans: human tactile, proprioceptive, and kinesthetic senses do not supply as much fine detail as human vision, and consequently haptic representations do not have to be as detailed as the corresponding visual images to be believable to a human user. An existing two-dimensional image can be used as the visual component of a human-computer interface. A three-dimensional haptic model that is topologically similar to the image can be selected, where topological similarity means that the haptic model provides an acceptable approximation to important characteristics of the haptic experience desired to accompany the two-dimensional image.

Abstract: The present invention provides a method of generating haptic interface experiences that is capable of generating haptic companions to existing two-dimensional images. The method exploits the dominance of visual over haptic in humans: human tactile, proprioceptive, and kinesthetic senses do not supply as much fine detail as human vision, and consequently haptic representations do not have to be as detailed as the corresponding visual images to be believable to a human user. An existing two-dimensional image can be used as the visual component of a human-computer interface. A three-dimensional haptic model that is topologically similar to the image can be selected, where topological similarity means that the haptic model provides an acceptable approximation to important characteristics of the haptic experience desired to accompany the two-dimensional image.

Abstract: An apparatus and method of issuing commands to a computer by a user interfacing with a virtual reality environment. To issue a command, the user directs gaze at a virtual button within the virtual reality environment, causing a perceptible change in the virtual button, which then sends a command corresponding to the virtual button to the computer, optionally after a confirming action is performed by the user, such as depressing a thumb switch.