Abstract: Systems, apparatuses and methods for automated perineal care are provided. A system embodiment includes a user support element, a sensor configured to measure a cleanliness state of a user, a cleaning element configured to clean a user perineal area, and a controller configured to command operation of the cleaning element based on the sensor. An apparatus embodiment includes a containment structure, a sensor, a cleaning element assembly including a drive, actuator and a nozzle, and a controller configured to control the cleaning element assembly based on the sensor. A method embodiment includes positioning a user into a perineal cleaning position, scanning the user with a sensor, determining a cleanliness status, and activating a cleaning element based on the cleanliness status.

Abstract: To convey tactile sensations over an open space, a system may use a vortex generator to direct one or more vortices at an object in 3-D space. Once a vortex strikes an object—e.g., a user's hand—it applies a force. The vortex generator can control the frequency and intensity of the vortices in order to provide different tactile sensations that correspond to virtual objects or events in a visual presentation. The system may identify and track objects in the real-world environment, and based on information provided by a device displaying the visual presentation, transmit instructions to the vortex generator to discharge vortices that convey a tactile sensation corresponding to the virtual object or event in the visual presentation. By doing so, the vortices augment the real-world environment to immerse the user in the visual presentation.

Abstract: To convey tactile sensations over an open space, a system may use a vortex generator to direct one or more vortices at an object in 3-D space. Once a vortex strikes an object—e.g., a user's hand—it applies a force. The vortex generator can control the frequency and intensity of the vortices in order to provide different tactile sensations that correspond to virtual objects or events in a visual presentation. The system may identify and track objects in the real-world environment, and based on information provided by a device displaying the visual presentation, transmit instructions to the vortex generator to discharge vortices that convey a tactile sensation corresponding to the virtual object or event in the visual presentation. By doing so, the vortices augment the real-world environment to immerse the user in the visual presentation.