Rob Beschizza got a hands-on with a prototype maglev haptic interface being developed at Carnegie Mellon which uses a pair of wildly expensive donut-shaped electromagnets to produce physical feedback and texture with a fidelity of up to 2 microns.
On the texture board’s hard surface, the haptic feedback was so sharp and resolute that the metal grip clanged against it, much as it might on a solid surface. On the board’s virtual vinyl record, each groove of the LP was individually distinguishable.
Based on this report, I predict the Nintendo Wii 2 will cost $24,900 dollars.
Hands-On With Maglev Haptic Control Technology [Gadget Lab]
That is amazing. DO WANT.
But one has to wonder: is it healthy to put your hands in a magnetic field that strong for hours on end? A field strong enough to make metal clang “much as it might on a solid surface.” I have no idea, but would be hesitant.
“”Experience the visco-elastic properties of simulated tissue,” said Hollis at one point.”
Sold.
That has to be one of the more disturbing phrases I’ve read today.
I’m sure the magnets themselves could be made cheaper but electromagnets that powerful likely suck down a lot of coal juice.
Still the technology could be a breakthrough for the disabled, remote surgery etc.