Introduction

This chapter introduces the reader to haptics, a field that has enriched how we interact with the digital world through the sense of touch. This chapter defines the term and the corresponding technology, and then provides a thorough list of types of haptics organized by Physical Principle and by User Action. It also explores the historical context in which the first haptic systems emerged and discusses recent key advancements in the field. In addition, it details how haptic technology is used in healthcare, gaming, and space exploration. The chapter also discusses the challenges of applying haptics to consumer products and industrial applications to offer the reader a nuanced perspective of the technology and its cost and benefits. Finally, the chapter provides an overview of the six chapters in the book.