Shape memory alloy actuators for haptic wearables: A review.

[Display omitted] • The state-of-the-art of shape memory alloy haptic wearable devices is reviewed. • Working performances and features of shape memory alloy are introduced. • Diverse shape memory alloy mechanisms and haptic feedback types are correlated. • A design process for shape memory alloy haptic wearables is proposed based on material-centred approach. Devices delivering sophisticated and natural haptic feedback often encompass numerous mechanical elements, leading to increased sizes and wearability challenges. Shape memory alloys (SMAs) are lightweight, compact, and have high power-to-weight ratios, and thus can easily be embedded without affecting the overall device shapes. Here, a review of SMA-based haptic wearables is provided. The article starts with an introduction of SMAs, while incorporating analyses of relevant devices documented in the literature. Haptic and SMA materials fields are correlated, with haptic perception insights aiding SMA actuator design, and distinct SMA mechanisms offering diverse haptic feedback types. A design process for SMA haptic wearables is proposed based on material-centered approach. We show SMAs hold potential for haptic devices aiding visually impaired people and promise in immersive technology and remote interpersonal haptic communication. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]