Innovobot Labs announced that it is teaming up with three world leading technology companies to develop a next generation reference design for automotive displays. This next-gen haptics technology will be unveiled at the upcoming Consumer Electronics Show, in Las Vegas, Nevada, January 5-8, 2023. TDK will supply its patented PowerHap actuators, for sharper feeling haptics.

BOE Varitronix will provide the screen and related controllers, while smart, embedded control solutions provider Microchip Technology Inc., will add its haptics electronics system, including amplifier and microcontroller. For its part, Innovobot Labs is responsible for overall system design and integration. The project comes in response to a need for more cost-effective haptic technology in the automotive industry.

Large dashboard screens that lack good tactile feedback are challenging to use. Providing enhanced haptics to displays in cars and trucks lets designers add "feel and texture" to buttons, as well as sliders to touchscreen elements. This makes it safer for drivers when they interact with the displays.

Currently, tier-level suppliers quote haptics at high prices because the currently available technology is challenging and risky. The product proposed by the project partners will lower the adoption barrier, allowing a broader number of suppliers to quote haptics more aggressively, with increased confidence in their ability to meet performance specifications.