We cover some of the common questions that our customers have regarding using Ultrahaptics arrays, either in multiple use scenarios, array orientation, size or cover materials.
A full guide on how to set-up your array, can be found in our Getting Started area, or follow our more detailed tutorials listed below.
NOTE: This article applies to our Development Kit products only. This article does not apply to the Ultrahaptics STRATOS Inspire. The Ultrahaptics STRATOS Inspire is a fully integrated device and should not be disassembled.
Can my application use more than one array?
Ultrahaptics SDK is capable of connecting to multiple Ultrahaptics arrays. The number of arrays you connect will depend on which ones you are using and on the limitations of the host system. For example, processor power and number of available USB connections. However, only a single Leap Motion® camera module can be hosted at any one time.
Tip: Try our tutorial on how to use multiple arrays
How should the array be oriented?
There are no restrictions on the orientation of the array itself, but the array must not be covered by any solid materials and the area between the array and hand must not be obstructed.
The hand will also need to be clearly visible to the tracking camera and, for the optimal Ultrahaptics experience, the palm of the hand should face the array.
You may wish to change the position of the tracking camera to position your array. If so, you will have to modify the alignment settings in your code.
Tip: Try our tutorial on camera alignment
Can I cover or hide the array?
The Ultrahaptics system relies on generating an acoustic field in space using ultrasound. The array should not be obstructed by solid surfaces or anything that interferes with the interaction space. However, we are continually researching ways to protect and hide the array for use in consumer and public environments.
Ultrahaptics has selected and characterised a number of sample covers – three splash proof, ACOUTEX gauzes from SAATI and two perforated, stainless steel covers – for you to assess with your prototype application.
These offer protection from dust, knocks and spillages without sacrificing acoustic output. The sample pack is included with our STRATOS Explore Development Kit and available as a separate accessory pack for the TOUCH Development Kit.
If you wish to experiment with your own cover materials or masking, the material should be porous or perforated, as thin as possible, and positioned as close to the surface of the transducers as possible. Our research has shown that perforations with smooth surfaces at the microscopic level provide the least acoustic impedance or distortion.
Can the array size be reduced?
Array size is dictated by the size and number of transducers. The number of transducers has a direct influence on the size of the interaction zone and strength of sensation: as a rule of thumb the fewer transducers the smaller the interaction zone.
While the STRATOS Explore Development Kit and TOUCH Development Kit are of fixed size and cannot be broken apart or dismantled, your application may require a smaller layout.
We are able to offer guidance and provide bespoke services to simulate, design and build custom arrays based on your application requirements.
0 Comments