Robotic graphics: a new approach to force feedback for virtual reality

A new conceptual solution is presented for the problem of providing force feedback for virtual reality, concentrating on potential CAD/CAM applications. The essential concept is that force feedback is provided by interactions between the human operator and specialized external (as opposed to worn) robots. This is called "robotic graphics" to express the analogy between robots simulating the feel of an object, and graphics displays simulating its appearance. This is illustrated by introducing the derivative concepts of "robotic shape displays" and "roboxels."