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Haptic Technology 101: Common Haptic Terms Explained

Haptic Glossary

Every new field comes with its own specialized language. Much like a musician learning to read music before playing an instrument, understanding foundational haptic terms is essential for clear communication and comprehension in this space. 

That’s why we’ve put together this short glossary, so you can confidently discuss and understand the key concepts behind your next haptic project.

Frequency & Amplitude
  • Frequency (Hz): How fast the actuator vibrates. Higher frequency = sharper “buzz,” lower frequency = deeper “rumble.”
  • Amplitude: The intensity or strength of the vibration. Higher amplitude = stronger feedback.
Vibrotactile
  • Definition: Vibratory feedback specifically felt by the skin. Commonly achieved through small motors or actuators (ERM, LRA, or wideband like LMR).
Tactor
  • Definition: Any component (motor, actuator, or transducer) that directly generates the tactile sensation.
  • Use Case: In wearable devices, multiple tactors can be placed at different points for a distributed haptic experience.
Wideband Actuator
  • What It Is: An actuator capable of producing vibrations across a broad range of frequencies (low to high).
  • How It Works: Often uses proprietary designs (e.g., voice coil mechanisms) to generate programmable waveforms.
  • Pros: Delivers high-fidelity, dynamic haptic effects (great for gaming, VR, audio-to-haptics).
  • Cons: More complex and costly regular haptic motors
Sharpness
  • Definition: The perceived crispness or abruptness of a haptic effect, determined by how quickly vibration transitions occur (from zero to peak amplitude and back).
  • Use Case: Emphasizes clarity in tactile cues, enhancing sensations like a sudden “tap” or “click” for more immediate, attention-grabbing feedback.
Pulse
  • Definition: A short, sharp burst of vibration that starts and stops quickly.
  • Use Case: Often used for alert notifications or quick button-feedback effects in devices.
Impact
  • Definition: A strong, sudden vibration that simulates a jolt or strike.
  • Use Case: Frequently employed in gaming and VR to replicate collisions, explosions, or recoil.
Resonant Frequency
  • Definition: The specific frequency at which a motor naturally vibrates with the greatest amplitude.
  • Significance: Operating a motor at its resonant frequency yields the most efficient and pronounced haptic output.
G-Force
  • Definition: A measure of acceleration felt as weight, commonly used to describe the intensity of a vibration or impact (1G = acceleration of gravity at Earth’s surface).
  • Relevance in Haptics: Higher G-force values typically mean more powerful, forceful haptic feedback.
Haptic Resolution
  • What It Is: The level of detail and subtlety an actuator can convey (similar to pixel resolution in displays).
  • Significance: High resolution means more nuanced sensations and the ability to replicate complex waveforms.
Latency
  • Definition: The delay between an input trigger (e.g., button press) and the resulting haptic output.
  • Why It Matters: Lower latency delivers more responsive, realistic feedback—critical for gaming and interactive applications.
Force Feedback
  • Definition: A more robust form of haptics that exerts physical force or resistance, often found in steering wheels or advanced VR controllers.
  • Difference from Vibrotactile: Instead of just “buzzing,” force feedback can push or pull against the user’s movement.
Haptic Waveform
  • Definition: A digital pattern describing how an actuator’s vibration changes over time (e.g., ramp up, peak, ramp down).
  • Importance: Well-crafted waveforms can convey specific sensations, like a simulated “click” or a rolling “thump.”
The Language of Haptics

As the haptics industry continues to grow, understanding these core terms is vital for designing or choosing the right haptic solution, whether you’re building a wearable, a gaming peripheral, or the next VR breakthrough. Using precise terminology helps to clarify the intended effects and enriches the design and user experience overall.

We hope this guide offers a clear overview of common haptic terminology. If you have any questions about our haptics technology or would like additional information, feel free to reach out to us here.

 

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