Electrotactile

A form of tactile feedback that applies controlled electrical current to stimulate touch nerve endings in the skin, creating sensations of pressure, tingling, or texture. Electrotactile displays can achieve higher spatial resolution than vibrotactile systems because electrodes can be made very small and densely packed. The tongue is a particularly effective site for electrotactile stimulation due to its high density of sensory receptors and low electrical impedance. However, electrotactile systems require careful calibration to avoid discomfort or pain, as sensation thresholds vary across body locations and individuals. This technology is used in sensory substitution devices like the BrainPort.