Tactile presentation of information

摘要

Embodiments of the invention provide a device and system for providing information to a user in a tactile form. In one embodiment, the invention provides a device for providing information to a user, the device comprising: a plurality of individually-addressable cells, each cell including an electrically-active material capable of changing shape and/or position in response to an electrical current; a electrical network connected to, and capable of delivering the electrical current to, each of the plurality of individually-addressable cells; a membrane atop the plurality of individually-addressable cells, onto which the change in shape and/or position of the electrically-active material in each cell may be transferred; and a receiver for receiving information capable of tactile presentation to a user using the plurality of individually-addressable cells.

主权项

1. A device for providing information to a user, the device comprising:
a plurality of individually-addressable cells, each cell including an electrically-active material capable of changing shape and/or position in response to an electrical current; a electrical network connected to, and capable of delivering the electrical current to, each of the plurality of individually-addressable cells; a membrane atop the plurality of individually-addressable cells and in contact with the electrically-active material, onto which the change in shape and/or position of the electrically-active material in each cell may be transferred; and a receiver for receiving information capable of tactile presentation to a user using the plurality of individually-addressable cells, wherein each of the plurality of individually-addressable cells is independently capable of a range of changes in shape and/or position, such that the membrane may adopt a cross-sectional shape having a plurality of heights, the plurality of heights including a first height equal to an unraised surface of the membrane, a second height a first distance above the unraised surface of the membrane, and a third height a second distance above the unraised surface of the membrane, the second distance being greater than the first distance, and wherein each of the individually-addressable cells is encased in a fluid support material within the substrate.