Ultrahaptics STRATOSTM INSPIRE - User Manual

The Ultrahaptics STRATOS Inspire (USI) is a plug-and-play mid-air haptics device designed to project haptic sensations onto hands or fingertips using an array of ultrasound transducers. It is intended for use in a static desktop mount or fixed installation, providing immersive interactive experiences without physical contact.

Function Description:

The STRATOS Inspire creates haptic sensations in mid-air through the use of ultrasound transducers. These sensations are projected onto the user's hands or fingertips, allowing for tactile feedback in virtual or augmented reality environments, interactive displays, and other applications where touchless interaction is desired. The device integrates a Leap Motion® camera module for hand tracking, enabling precise targeting of haptic effects. It is designed for developers and evaluators to explore and implement mid-air haptics in their projects.

Important Technical Specifications:

• Dimensions:
  • Metric: 188mm (Height) x 430mm (Width) x 54mm (Depth)
  • Imperial: 7.5" (Height) x 17" (Width) x 2.1" (Depth)
• Weight: 3.1 kg (7 lb)
• Power Supply: 24V DC +/- 10%, 3.75A Max. 5mm x 2.1mm barrel connector. A Limited Power Source in accordance with IEC 62368-1:2014 must be used.
• Data Connection: USB Type-C connector
• Ingress Protection: IP4X (splashproof, but not submersible)
• Mounting Methods: VESA 100 x 100 mount, desktop stand
• Haptic Interaction Zone: 50-700mm (2" to 27.5") deep from the front of the array grille
• Hand Tracking Device: Leap Motion® camera module
• Ultrasound Transducers: 256
• Construction: Die cast and machined aluminum, stainless steel
• Ambient Operating Temperature: 0°C to +40°C / 32°F to 104°F
• Certifications: Certified compliant to IEC 62368-1:2014, ROHS, and REACH directives.
• Compatible Operating Systems: Microsoft® Windows® (7, 8, 8.1, 10), Apple® MacOS® (10.10 onwards), Ubuntu® Linux® 16.04 LTS or later.
• Minimum System Requirements: Intel Core i3®; AMD Phenom II® with 2GB RAM and USB 2.0 port.
• Recommended System Requirements: Intel Core i5/i7® or AMD Ryzen® with 4GB RAM, USB 2.0 and dedicated graphics processor.

Usage Features:

• Plug and Play: Designed for easy setup and immediate use.
• Desktop Stand: Includes a desktop stand for convenient placement.
• VESA Mounting: Supports VESA 100x100 mounting for integration into various setups, including monitor stands and wall mounts.
• Part-Recessed Installation: Can be integrated into a cut-out on a vertical surface, sealing against the casing seal. An M4 security bolting point is provided for this purpose.
• Developer Support: Ultrahaptics provides a Developer Site with SDKs (C and C# APIs), documentation, tutorials, guidelines, FAQs, and the latest tools and firmware.
• Development Tools: Access to Demo Suite for experiencing mid-air haptic sensations, Sensation Editor™ for running and customizing sensations, and Ultrahaptics Core Asset for Unity for easy integration into Unity projects.
• Front Grille: Protects the transducer array.
• Fan Inlets/Outlets: Located at the sides for cooling, must not be obstructed.
• Rating Plate: Contains the serial number for registration and support.
• Power Socket: For connecting the 24V DC power supply.
• USB Type-C Port: For data connection to a computer.

Maintenance Features:

• System Updates: Ultrahaptics periodically releases software and firmware updates to introduce new features, functionality, and bug fixes. Users are recommended to regularly check the Developer Site (developer.ultrahaptics.com) for updates and install them.
• Cleaning: The casing is splashproof; liquid spills should be cleaned off as they occur.
• Disposal: The device must be disposed of at a designated collection point for the recycling of waste electrical and electronic equipment, not with household waste.
• Warranty: A 12-month conditional warranty is provided from the date of purchase. This warranty covers defects not caused by neglect, misuse, mistreatment, or violation of precautionary measures.
• Support: For problems, users can contact the Ultrahaptics support team at help@ultrahaptics.com, quoting the product name and serial number. Return instructions and an RMA number will be provided for serviced or replaced units under warranty, requiring proof of purchase.

Safety Precautions (Important for Maintenance and Usage):

• Secure Mounting: Always ensure the device is securely and stably mounted using provided mounting points or the desktop stand.
• Electrical Safety: Only use the included or suitably rated Limited Power Source. Do not use non-Limited Power Sources or power supplies outside stated specifications to avoid damage or electric shock. Electrical installations must be carried out by a qualified person. Turn off and isolate the power source before installation or making changes to wiring. Do not modify or disassemble components. Do not use if any cable is damaged or wires are exposed.
• Overheating Prevention: Do not obstruct the fan covers at the sides to prevent overheating and potential power-down.
• Heat and Fire: Keep the device and power adapter away from sources of heat and fire.
• Haptic Sensation Safety: Avoid targeting sensations directly onto ears or eyes. Do not place the head directly in front of the transducer array. Maintain a minimum distance of 30 cm / 12" between the haptic focal point and the head when designing installations/sensations.
• User Health: Users with pacemakers, ICDs, other medical devices, pregnant individuals, the elderly, or those with heart/hearing conditions or other serious medical conditions that could be affected by ultrasound or electromagnetic interference should consult a doctor before use.
• Motion Sickness Symptoms: If users experience dizziness, disorientation, impaired balance, nausea, light-headedness, headaches, involuntary muscle twitches, discomfort/pain in hand/arm/head, drowsiness, fatigue, or any symptoms similar to motion sickness, they must stop using the device immediately. If symptoms persist, they should not drive, operate machinery, or engage in other demanding activities until symptoms subside for several hours, and should see a doctor if symptoms are serious or persistent.
• Sensitivity Loss: Continuous feedback can lead to temporary loss of sensitivity. Users should take a 10 to 15 minute break if this occurs, adjusting break times as needed for individual differences.