Since at least the 1980s, haptics technologies have teased us with a seductive promise to transform the landscape of digital communication. However, contemporary deployments of haptics remain limited primarily to vibration feedback emanating from video game controllers, smartphones, and wearable fitness trackers, still falling far short of reaching the ‘perfect haptics’ sought after by those in the field. Beginning with the technology’s origins in 18th century electrical experiments and nineteenth century experimental psychology labs, we explore the technogenesis of haptics, with the intent of understanding how haptics was shaped by the changing historical contexts of its gradual emergence. We will then turn to contemporary efforts to design and commercialize more advanced forms of haptics technologies, learning from both the successes and failures of various case studies, including remote manipulation interfaces, sensory substitution systems, virtual reality bodysuits, video game controllers, and teledildonic cybersex wearables.

Instructor : David Parisi