We have cameras to record what we see, but how can we record what we touch? Katherine Kuchenbecker, a mechanical engineering professor at the University of Pennsylvania, is working to answer exactly that question. Using sensitive instruments that measure acceleration, speed, and force, she can digitally recreate the texture of objects. This technology can help bring museum exhibits and video games to life, or be used to develop medical and athletic training programs. An interesting look at the next step in digitizing the human experience.  

Concepts

texture, technology resources

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Additional Tags

mechanical engineering, haptics, touch technology, computer interfaces, medical training, interactive games, athletic training, texture, digital recording

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Pros

• Demonstrates the problem-solving nature of engineering design
• Speaker presents her research with an upbeat and enthusiastic attitude
• Academic language is appropriate for most high schoolers
• Includes multiple choice and free-response questions to guide class discussion

Cons

• Requires teacher to develop a clear learning objective to bring focus to the content of the video

Common Core

SL.9-10.3 SL.11-12.3