Methods and apparatus for jammable HCI interfaces

摘要

In exemplary implementations of this invention, a jammable structure functions as an HCI interface. A user provides input by changing the shape of a flexible layer of the jammable structure (e.g., by pressing against it or stretching, twisting or bending it) and receives haptic feedback (e.g., varying stiffness). Sensors are used to determine the shape of the flexible layer. The sensors output data that is indicative of electromagnetic waves that have traveled through the jammable media or of electrical or magnetic phenomena that are produced by the waves. For example, visible or infrared light may be shone through a transparent jammable media to the flexible layer and reflect back to a camera. The media may comprise granular particles (e.g., glass beads) and a liquid (e.g., oil) with matching indices of refraction. Or capacitive sensing may be used to detect the shape of the flexible layer.

主权项

1. A method of detecting the shape of a flexible layer of a jammable structure, wherein:
(a) the jammable structure comprises a jammable media and a container that contains the jammable media; (b) the container comprises, at least in part, the flexible layer; (c) the jammable media comprises granular particles and interstitial fluid that have matching indices of refraction; (d) the jammable media has a stiffness that varies depending on how closely the granular particles are packed; and (e) the method comprises, in combination,
(i) one or more optical sensors taking measurements of infrared or visible light that has traveled through the jammable media, and(ii) one or more processors analyzing the measurements to determine the shape of the flexible layer.