We introduce UltraBots, a system that combines ultrasound haptic feedback and robotic actuation for large-area mid-air haptics for VR. Ultrasound haptics can provide precise mid-air haptic feedback and versatile shape rendering, but the interaction area is often limited by the small size of the ultrasound devices, restricting the possible interactions for VR. To address this problem, this paper introduces a novel approach that combines robotic actuation with ultrasound haptics. More specifically, we will attach ultrasound transducer arrays to tabletop mobile robots or robotic arms for scalable, extendable, and translatable interaction areas. We plan to use Sony Toio robots for 2D translation and/or commercially available robotic arms for 3D translation. Using robotic actuation and hand tracking measured by a VR HMD (e.g., Oculus Quest), our system can keep the ultrasound transducers underneath the user's hands to provide on-demand haptics. We demonstrate applications with workspace environments, medical training, education and entertainment.

The robots are coming...in the form of voice-first, conversational A...I-based chatbots that use Natural Language Processing and Machine Learning to "understand" human commands and questions and respond appropriately, at scale, in real time, on behalf of individuals and institutions. The "Harvard UltraBot" could represent the university to potential applicants, the media, and other universities, through their respective UltraBots. A "LinkedIn UltraBot" from Microsoft could give voice to users and allow them to build and interface with their networks in a direct and intuitive way, by speaking. Harvard, Stanford, and UC Berkeley may soon all be racing to produce prototype and production models of their respective UltraBots. Etopia Media Consulting is advising every 2020 Presidential candidate to read "Competing in the Age of AI: Strategy and Leadership When Algorithms and Networks Run the World," by Marco Iansiti and Karim Lakhani, both at Harvard Business School.