Subject: Xtensory announces new Tactool tactile I/O devices.
From: [email-masked] (pin fong)
Date: Fri, 10 Jan 1992 06:30:00 GMT
Newsgroups: sci.virtual-worlds

X  t  e  n  s  o  r   y    I  n  c

				...opening the doors of perception TM

					140 Sunridge Drive
					Scotts Valley, CA  95066
					408/439-0600

Xtensory Inc is pleased to announce a series of tactile feedback building 
blocks so that virtual reality builders can effectively provide tactile sensa-
tions for their virtual reality applications. These building blocks, Tactools 
brings the sense of touch to virtual reality and is now available from 
Xtensory as prototype development systems.  In addition, Xtensory provides 
custom engineering for special requirements.    

The Xtensory tactile building blocks start with the Tactool experimenter's kit
and finish with the Tactool controller  that allows up to ten tactors per 
controller.

Tactool Experimenter is a single tactor with parts and a circuit diagram so 
that an experimenter is able to try shape memory alloy tactile feedback in 
his applications.  This kit requires assembly and is the perfect low cost 
solution for an experimenter wishing to try shape memory alloy.

Tactool Controller combines flexibility and performance.  This product 
provides both a MIDI and an RS232 interface for easy connections to PCs or 
workstations.  This product is provided in both the single tactor and multiple
tactor configurations.   Each Tactool controller can control up to ten tactors.
Up to sixteen Tactool controllers can be linked together.  This provides the 
ability to control up to 160 tactors from one single serial port.  Each 
controller can also be individually addressed.  This is the solution to 
sharing tactile sensations among participants within virtual environments.

All Tactool controllers have -

1.  User selectable addressing

2.  TacSoft,  Xtensory's software control software enabling control of tactors.

3.  Passthrough of MIDI signals for simultaneous control of music and tactile 
sensations.

Tactools is a true tactile feedback system in which the operator receives 
tactile cues from mechanical elements (tactors) via computer control.  Tactools
is comprised of two parts, tactors and a controller.  Shape-memory alloy 
actuators move the tactors permitting forceful yet compact devices to be
placed where they meet the fingertips.  The tactors are small enough to permit 
unimpeded hand grasp motions in gloves and compact enough to fit in pointing 
devices.  Each tactor is individually controllable and can be acutated in 
impulsive and vibratory modes.

The peripheral controller receives commands from the host and "fires" the 
appropriate tactors at the appropriate times.  The host is not burdened with 
actuator control overhead and needs only to send out commands to fire the 
tactors.  A simple protocol is used for communications via EIA232 and MIDI 
interfaces, providing for easy connections to PCs and workstations.  Each 
Tactools controller can control up to ten tactors, and up to sixteen 
Tactool controllers can be linked together providing the ability to
control up to 160 tactors from a single serial port.  Both the EIA232 and 
MIDI ports may be physically connected, with only one or the other 
communicating at a time.

Tactools systems are available in the basic two tactor up to ten tactor 
configuration.

Xtensory also provides custom engineering to tailor TacSoft for specialized 
customer applications.

Tactool Experimenter			$250.00

Tactool Controller  with two tactors	$2000.00 (Addition of tactors 
						  available)
		
Prices are FOB Santa Cruz, CA, 60 days ARO.  

Tactool and TacSoft are trademarks of Xtensory Inc
Call Xtensory Inc (408) 439-0600 for further details.

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TactoolsTM   Technical Summary

HOST

Host-Controller Interfaces:		EIA232, MIDI

Host Software:				Any software producing EIA232 or MIDI 
					signals.

Communication Protocol:			Standard protocol provided.  Custom 
					protocols available.

CONTROLLER Model XTC1

Type:					Microprocessor-based system 

Software:				Tacsoft onboard controller code.  
					Customization available.

Interconnections:			EIA232, MIDI IN, MIDI THRU, MIDI
				 	OUT, Tactile
 
Switches:				Tactor Mode (Enable/Disable), Power, 
					Reset, MIDI Base Channel

Bootup:					Autostart upon power-up or reset

Size:					Approx. 1.7" H x 8.5" W x 10.3" D

Weight:					Approx. 4 lbs

Power supply:				110/220V tabletop, included with system
					(International)

Environment:				Indoor use only

TACTORS Model XTE1

Addressability:				Individually controllable

Configuration:				Single tactor in each tactor module

Tactor Module Size:			.35" x .80" x .20 " thick 

Force:					30 grams

Interconnections:			Tactors attached to cable assembly

Environment:				Indoor use only

Contact us regarding custom features.
Specifications subject to change without notice.  
Tactools and Tacsoft are trademarks of Xtensory Inc.
Copyright 1991 Xtensory Inc

[MODERATOR'S NOTE:  Xtensory is a new R&D/systems integrator firm working
in the field of virtual interfaces, with assistance from the tactile
field generator people at TiNi Alloys (Dave Johnson et al).  The principal
at Xtensory is Pin Fong Ng, formerly with Digital Equipment Corporation.
The firm is headquartered in Scotts Valley, California, near Santa Cruz.
-- Bob Jacobson]