Haptic Interface

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What Does Haptic Interface Mean?

A haptics interface is a system that allows a human to interact with a computer through bodily sensations and movements. Haptics refers to a type of human-computer interaction technology that encompasses tactile feedback or other bodily sensations to perform actions or processes on a computing device.

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Techopedia Explains Haptic Interface

A haptics interface is primarily implemented and applied in virtual reality environments, where an individual can interact with virtual objects and elements. A haptics interface relies on purpose-built sensors that send an electrical signal to the computer based on different sensory movements or interactions. Each electrical signal is interpreted by the computer to execute a process or action. In turn, the haptic interface also sends a signal to the human organ or body. For example, when playing a racing game using a haptic interface powered data glove, a user can use his or her hand to steer the car. However, when the car hits a wall or another car, the haptics interface will send a signal that will imitate the same feeling on user’s hands in the form of a vibration or rapid movement.

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Margaret Rouse
Technology Expert
Margaret Rouse
Technology Expert

Margaret is an award-winning technical writer and teacher known for her ability to explain complex technical subjects to a non-technical business audience. Over the past twenty years, her IT definitions have been published by Que in an encyclopedia of technology terms and cited in articles by the New York Times, Time Magazine, USA Today, ZDNet, PC Magazine, and Discovery Magazine. She joined Techopedia in 2011. Margaret's idea of a fun day is helping IT and business professionals learn to speak each other’s highly specialized languages.