HapNet: Optimizing the Application of Haptics for Training

Haptic interfaces are being designed to enhance user interactions with entities in virtual environments. Potentially, haptics has widespread training applications. However, while visual and auditory stimuli have long been effectively incorporated into immersive training environments, haptics stimulation has lagged behind, due in large part to factors such as the immature state of haptics technologies and the lack of research on how best to utilize haptics for training. CHI Systems, Inc., teamed with the University of Central Florida's Institute for Simulation and Training, is developing the HapNet methodology and toolset to determine how best to employ haptics to achieve training benefit. The ultimate product of our effort will be the HapNet desktop software application and visual workspace to facilitate the design of tactor applications for various uses (e.g., training, gaming, medical-therapeutic). HapNet will incorporate mapping algorithms founded on theoretically and empirically based guidelines developed as a result of the research performed in Phases I and II. In Phase I, the HapNet team (a) assembled a prototype virtual testbed, (b) developed a taxonomy of haptic applications to guide research, and (c) performed preliminary research. In Phase II, the goals are to conduct a systematic research program to investigate the optimal placement and stimulation patterns of tactor arrays for training as well as for other applications suggested by the taxonomy, and to integrate HapNet into a military training environment.