Interactive Forces Analysis and Haptic Modeling for Virtual Prototyping and Product Development

In this paper, we present a haptic modeling for interactive forces on heterogeneous deformable product design and virtual prototyping. Techniques of both geometric and physical modeling of deformable heterogeneous materials are presented for virtual prototyping and product development. Haptic interactive forces and torques are calculated based on the deformation of heterogeneous materials with different material properties. Surface frictions are considered in the force rendering modeling to simulate physical properties of deformable objects. A lab-built 5-DOF (degree of freedom) haptic force-torque feedback interface is developed to allow the user to maneuver and test the virtual product models built for product development. Examples of using the presented techniques in medical applications were also discussed. The proposed techniques can be used in design and product evaluation, virtual prototyping, and other virtual reality applications where soft materials are involved.