Elemphasize: Emphasizing Mechanical Tactile Sensation via Electrical Stimulation

Abstract

In order to provide a tactile sensation that is appropriate for tense situations such as being slapped or slashed, it must be safe as well as strong and natural. Mechanical stimulation can present a natural sensation, but too much intensity can lead to injury. Electrical stimulation can present high intensity stimuli without mechanical damage, but the naturalness of tactile sensation is inferior due to its bizarre sensation. We proposed a method to combine mechanical stimulation and electrical stimulation to achieve strong sensation without losing natural sensation. An electrode is attached to the physical object and the subjective intensity of the mechanical stimulus is enhanced by the electrical stimulus when contact with the skin. We also present several scenarios such as application to a thrilling VR content and training to get used to fear of injection pain.