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Yes, that is already one of many options of haptic feedback being explored actually:

> A new technique that does not require actuators is called reverse-electrovibration. A weak current is sent from a device on the user through the object they are touching to the ground. The oscillating electric field around the skin on their finger tips creates a variable sensation of friction depending on the waveform, frequency, and amplitude of the signal.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Haptic_technology



It seems that I've got years of experience with third generation haptic technology then.

If you plugin a laptop into an outlet that is not properly grounded and move your fingers across metal surfaces of the thing, one can experience it first hand. A sensation of friction, like moving your fingers over ripples because of the current running through them. This should work with a lot of electrical appliances that have metal surfaces.

Not really pleasant though :)


Now that you mention it, I have that with my current laptop too! It has made me long for the days of plastic covers, something I did not think possible :).


I thought I was just imagining that area below the keyboard on my laptop sometimes feels rougher.




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