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Dynamic shaping of multi-touch stimuli by programmable acoustic metamaterial

Author

Listed:
  • Thomas Daunizeau

    (Sorbonne Université, CNRS ISIR)

  • Sinan Haliyo

    (Sorbonne Université, CNRS ISIR)

  • David Gueorguiev

    (Sorbonne Université, CNRS ISIR)

  • Vincent Hayward

    (Sorbonne Université, CNRS ISIR)

Abstract

Acoustic metamaterials are artificial structures, often lattice of resonators, with unusual properties. They can be engineered to stop wave propagation in specific frequency bands. Once manufactured, their dispersive qualities remain invariant in time and space, limiting their practical use. Actively tuned arrangements have received growing interest to address this issue. Here, we introduce a new class of active metamaterial made from dual-state unit cells, either vibration sources when powered or passive resonators when left disconnected. They possess self-tuning capabilities, enabling deep subwavelength band gaps to automatically match the carrier signal of powered cells, typically around 200 Hz. Swift electronic commutations between both states establish the basis for real-time reconfiguration of waveguides and shaping of vibration patterns. A series of experiments highlight how these tailored acceleration fields can spatially encode information relevant to human touch. This novel metamaterial can readily be made using off-the-shelf smartphone vibration motors, paving the way for a widespread adoption of multi-touch tactile displays.

Suggested Citation

  • Thomas Daunizeau & Sinan Haliyo & David Gueorguiev & Vincent Hayward, 2025. "Dynamic shaping of multi-touch stimuli by programmable acoustic metamaterial," Nature Communications, Nature, vol. 16(1), pages 1-10, December.
    • Handle: RePEc:nat:natcom:v:16:y:2025:i:1:d:10.1038_s41467-025-63560-6
    DOI: 10.1038/s41467-025-63560-6
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    References listed on IDEAS

    as
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