HapSeat: producing motion sensation with multiple force-feedback devices embedded in a seat

We introduce a novel way of simulating sensations of motion which does not require an expensive and cumbersome motion platform. Multiple force-feedbacks are applied to the seated user's body to generate a sensation of motion experiencing passive navigation. A set of force-feedback devices such as mobile armrests or headrests are arranged around a seat so that they can apply forces to the user. We have dubbed this new approach HapSeat. A proof of concept has been designed which uses three low-cost force-feedback devices, and two control models have been implemented. Results from the first user study suggest that subjective sensations of motion are reliably generated using either model. Our results pave the way to a novel device to generate consumer motion effects based on our prototype.