This application relates to an electrotactile system and method for delivering
tactile stimuli to a skin surface of a user. The system includes one or more electrotactile
modules each comprising an array of electrodes electrically connected to an integrated
circuit. Each integrated circuit has data processing and current driving capability.
The current delivered from the integrated circuit to each electrode is relatively
small, preferably less than 4 milliamps. The modules may be connected to a flexible
PC board by spring-loaded connectors. In one embodiment a plurality of electrotactile
modules may be grouped together to from an electrotactile device. Multiple electrotactile
devices may in turn be deployed as part of a wearable article for use in virtual
reality, telepresence, telerrobotics or other haptic feedback applications. The
system is capable receiving and transmitting tactile data via a communication link,
such as a conventional data network. For example, tactile data can be transmitted
in a scalable streaming format from a remote site to the system via a data network.
The system may form part of a virtual reality entertainment application.