  The cyclotactor is a novel platform for finger-based tactile interaction
research. The operating principle is to track vertical fingerpad position above
a freely approachable surface aperture, while directly projecting a force on
the same fingerpad. The projected force can be specified in Newtons, with high
temporal resolution. In combination with a relatively low overall latency
between tactile input and output, this is used to work towards the ideal of
instant programmable haptic feedback. This enables support for output across
the continuum between static force levels and vibrotactile feedback, targeting
both the kinesthetic and cutaneous senses of touch. The current state of the
technology is described, and an overview of the research goals of the
cyclotactor project is given.
