Ultrahaptics, a tech startup which originally started as a project within Bristol University has today announced a new technology platform that can create advanced haptic sensations in mid-air, STRATOS.
STRATOS features the company’s patented Time Point Streaming (TPS) technology to create complex haptic sensations suitable for the rendering of 3D objects by using arrays of ultrasonic transducers to project haptic feedback directly onto users’ hands.
Ultrahapics explains in a blog posting that: “In the STRATOS platform, the Time Point Streaming algorithms are fully embedded in an FPGA solver, reducing CPU load and allowing easier integration and lower manufacturing costs for the company’s customers. The architecture is also scalable, supporting arrays of up to 2048 transducers, which enables customers to build larger interaction zones.”
The technology can be used in a wide range of applications, from controls to immersive environments. In automotive infotainment for example, controls are made safer and more intuitive by combining gesture-recognition technology and mid-air haptic feedback. While for augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) purposes, whether that’s in consumer, enterprise or location-based entertainment products, haptic technology has the ability to create a stronger sense of presence through the addition of tactile sensations to complement audio and visual stimuli.
“It’s fantastic to bring our most advanced technology to a scalable, production-ready, embedded solution, and to be able to share this with the world!,” said Robert Blenkinsopp, Ultrahapics VP Product. “There are so many applications for this technology, and I’m very excited to see what our customers will create with it. I’m immensely proud of the technical leaps we’ve made in bringing STRATOS to market, and I’m looking forward to launching new products on the platform in the next few months, including reference designs for multiple applications.”
Last year, Ultrahaptics secured £17.9 million GBP of funding through an investment round. Then last month it announced a partnership with ZeroLight and Meta on an AR experience where users could explore a Pagani Huaya roadster hypercar. As Ultrahaptics continues development, VRFocus will keep you updated.
via Mint VR