01-OCT-99

Regarding using tactile methods to convey 2D visual images, I investigated
this last year when I was considering extending the "pictures via sound"
spare-time experimental project that I've been pottering at for several
years to include tactile output. At the time the "FEELit Mouse" was being
demoed by Immersion - it allows the features of Windows sessions to be
conveyed as tactile effects, though I haven't tried the device myself.

I've been investigating using a modified force-feedback joystick to
indicate position within an image (to produce a hand-moving effect similar
to that produced by the Betacom ScreenRover that I've just read about) and
also convey categorical visual information and shapes - I describe the
approach in :

http://ourworld.compuserve.com/homepages/daviddewhurst/details1.htm

Regards,

David Dewhurst

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WWW : http://ourworld.compuserve.com/homepages/DavidDewhurst/Vuphonics.html