Mag to the Future: Transforming Passive Objects into Circuit-Free Interactive Devices with Multimodal Haptic Feedback Using Magnetic Fields

Abstract

This paper presents MagToTheFuture, a tabletop platform that enables everyday objects to serve as multimodal haptic devices using passive magnetic patches, without embedded electronics. Previous magnetic approaches encountered a physical constraint: coil geometries tuned for strong magnetic force are poorly matched to efficient induction heating, limiting expansion of co-located modalities. We combine an electromagnet and an induction heater in a single actuator module, concentrically co-located yet driven through independent paths. A hall-sensor array estimates patch position and identity, while an XY gantry positions the actuator to deliver force, vibration, and localized heating at a single site. Our technical evaluation measures localization accuracy and analyzes material influences on force, vibration, and thermal responses. We conducted user studies on scenarios combining these cues in content augmentation, object-embedded augmentation, and informational augmentation. Results indicate that multimodal feedback improves haptic experience. Participant- designed scenarios suggest scalability toward bidirectional interfaces, edutainment, and accessibility.