Overview
This course examines the engineering, design, implementation, and evaluation of haptic interfaces that communicate through touch, force, vibration, texture, and motion. Students study human tactile and kinesthetic perception; actuator and sensor technologies; signal generation and filtering; embedded control; communication protocols; and the latency, bandwidth, rendering, and stability requirements of responsive haptic systems.
Through lectures and practical laboratory work, students analyze interaction requirements, select and integrate hardware, develop control and feedback algorithms, and construct functional prototypes. The course addresses multimodal interaction, accessibility and inclusive tactile design, safety, ergonomics, and ethical practice. Iterative prototyping, experimental measurement, structured user testing, technical documentation, and evidence-based communication of design trade-offs are emphasized.
Learning Outcomes
- Explain the principles of tactile and kinesthetic perception and relate them to haptic interface requirements.
- Evaluate actuator, sensor, controller, and communication technologies for specified haptic interaction tasks.
- Design responsive haptic feedback algorithms incorporating signal generation, filtering, latency management, and stability considerations.
- Implement and integrate embedded hardware and software for wearable, tactile, or force-feedback prototypes.
- Diagnose hardware-software integration faults using systematic measurement and troubleshooting methods.
- Conduct structured usability and perceptual evaluations of haptic systems, including appropriate accessibility and safety considerations.
- Synthesize experimental evidence into technical documentation that justifies design decisions and communicates engineering trade-offs.
Timetable
| Type | Length | Frequency | Period |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lecture | 2 hours | Weekly | All semester |
| Lab | 2 hours | Weekly | All semester |
| Tutorial | 1 hour | Fortnightly | All semester |
Assessment Schedule
| Type | Description | Weighting |
|---|---|---|
| Assignment | Haptic requirements analysis and technical design brief | 15.00% |
| Test | Sensor and actuator integration practical test | 15.00% |
| Assignment | Embedded control and signal-processing assignment | 15.00% |
| Deliverable | Prototype demonstration and technical documentation | 25.00% |
| Assignment | Structured usability and perceptual evaluation report | 15.00% |
| Exam | Final examination | 15.00% |
Prerequisites
Teaching Staff & Programs
This course is delivered jointly by faculty from the participating programs listed below. In line with the Douchewater Way, the University of Sexology tailors core instruction directly to each cohort's specific discipline — adapting curriculum to program needs rather than forcing students into a one-size-fits-all model. Learn more about our approach at The Douchewater Way.