Development and Characterization of a Ferrofluid-based Tactile Learning Aid Display

There are currently limited tactile learning aid materials for the blind and visually impaired, which incorporate refreshable displays with varying stiffness. In this research, we used a ferrofluid to develop a tactile learning aid display that creates bumps under the effect of a magnetic field to p...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Sensors and materials 2024-05, Vol.36 (5), p.1919
Main Authors: See, Aaron Raymond, Chandramohan, Kohila, Tolentino, Aldrin Joshua, Baldovino, Renann
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Deformation effects
Education
Feedback
Ferrofluids
Graphical user interface
Haptic interfaces
Instructional aids
Magnetic fields
Pressure sensors
Remote control
Stiffness
Tactile sensors (robotics)
Visual impairment
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Summary:There are currently limited tactile learning aid materials for the blind and visually impaired, which incorporate refreshable displays with varying stiffness. In this research, we used a ferrofluid to develop a tactile learning aid display that creates bumps under the effect of a magnetic field to provide versatile stiffness and sufficient deformation for rendering 2.5-dimensional information. To improve the force feedback, the ferrofluid was further enhanced with iron particles and evaluated using a pressure sensor. Subsequently, a microcontroller was used to send commands via Bluetooth to remotely control the tactile display. A graphical user interface that allows users to enter words, perform simple calculations, and display simple shapes on the tactile display was developed. Results from the enhanced ferrofluid showed force feedback that is 45% stronger than that of a commercial ferrofluid. This study includes a comprehensive examination of the effect of magnetic field on enhanced ferrofluid and also shows that the formulation of an enhanced ferrofluid has raised the force feedback to 4.2 N and the maximum protrusion height to up to 3 mm. This innovative approach offers potential benefits for the development of advanced haptic devices for the education of the visually impaired. Lastly, the proposed tactile sensor module signifies a major leap in assistive technology, unlocking new opportunities for engagement, education, and improvement in the quality of life of the visually impaired population.
ISSN:0914-4935
2435-0869
DOI:10.18494/SAM4808