Mid-Air Haptic Feedback SYSTEM
Project developed at: Harman International
Harnessing ultrasonic transducer arrays, mid-air haptics adds a tactile dimension to gesture interactions and spatial displays, creating a highly intuitive and satisfying user experience. This cutting-edge technology, sometimes called "touchless haptics," offers tremendous potential across various domains, including automotive, AR/VR/XR, 3D interfaces, wearables, and gaming.
In the automotive space, we collaborated closely with Ultraleap to develop mid-air tactile and gesture-based HMI concepts, transforming in-car interactions. By providing precise feedback and acknowledgment for gestures, this technology enables drivers to control infotainment systems more intuitively and with fewer visual distractions, enhancing safety and user satisfaction.
At CES 2016, I showcased the first prototype—a JBL speaker with integrated gesture and mid-air haptics controls—which garnered positive media attention from The Verge. Building on this success, I spearheaded the development of a standalone prototype tailored for automotive use cases, followed by a fully integrated system within a test vehicle. This final prototype, presented at CES 2017, demonstrated the full potential of mid-air haptics in automotive applications and received acclaim from outlets like ExtremeTech.
These prototypes not only highlighted the practical benefits of touchless haptics but also positioned HARMAN as a pioneer in this innovative field. The technology was widely demonstrated to executives, OEMs, and international audiences, opening discussions with leading automotive manufacturers about integrating mid-air haptics into future vehicles.
Read more about CES 2016 coverage on The Verge
Learn more about CES 2017 coverage on ExtremeTech
HARMAN Partners with Ultrahaptics to Bring Custom Haptic Sensations to the Connected Car
This prototype demonstrates mid-air haptics integrated into a test vehicle, featuring a transducer array seamlessly embedded in custom trim and supported by a fully functional GUI for automotive gestures. Unique to this system is its ability to transmit signals through acoustically transparent materials, like the grille shown. Developed with Ultraleap components, the prototype was showcased to HARMAN executives, including board chairman Young Sohn, and to major OEMs in Silicon Valley and Detroit, highlighting its potential for automotive applications.
This tabletop prototype showcases the impact of mid-air haptics in vehicles through various infotainment applications. It has been widely exhibited worldwide, including in China, Korea, Japan, Germany, Italy, the UK, and the U.S., demonstrating its global appeal and potential.
At CES 2016, we showcased a JBL Authentics L16 speaker prototype featuring gesture controls with mid-air haptics, developed with Ultraleap. This technology is ideal for studio use, such as 3D mixing consoles, and could eventually enhance headphones by adding touchless haptic feedback to existing gesture interfaces.
Company: Harman International
Team: Future Experience Team
Location: Palo Alto, CA
Year: 2014-2017