Using this type of touch feedback could be a very rich way to learn

Dr Sile O'Modhrain, Media Lab Europe

Dr O'Modhrain has a particular interest in how touch technology could enhance the experience of a blind person like herself.

"I've always wanted from computers the same richness that other people have had from visual media," she told the BBC programme Go Digital.

"For most blind people, their interaction with their computers is just through speech and often it is very automated speech.

"Using this type of touch feedback could be a very rich way to learn about the laws of physics and mathematic or just have fun playing games," she said.

Wooden rollers

MIT researchers have already developed a simple device on wooden rollers connected by a wire that allows two people to feel each other moving the object.

Feel the force on these wooden rollers

The team in Dublin are looking to build on this and make touch technology available to the public.

"We're using force-feedback joysticks," said Ian Oakley, research associate at Media Lab Europe.

"We want to use mainstream technology to provide this communication between two people, so we're looking at instant messaging and trying to add touch."

The team have developed a system where two people can throw a virtual ball to each other and feel the force of the throw via a force-feedback joystick.

"In a later version, we might make it into a proper game where you would have to aim at the other person's goal, like air hockey," said Mr Oakley.

Feeling your way

The research is still in its early stages, but the team is enthusiastic about the possibilities for haptics technology.

"It would allow you to feel present and connected in a way you don't through video," said Dr O'Modhrain.

She pictures a scenario where two people could design a piece of furniture together even if they are separated by many kilometres.

In the future, they could not only talk about it but also be able to experience what the furniture would feel like.