Localized Haptics Using Shifting Masses

In one example, hollow tubes each having a spherical mass inside are positioned between two plates. Each plate can have a matrix of nodes that mirrors the other plate. If the mass is a ferromagnetic mass, then each node can have an electromagnetic coil such that the ferromagnetic mass. If the mass is a conductive mass, then each node can be a conductive node. The conductive nodes can have the same type of charge or opposing charges. The conductive mass can be negatively charged, positively charged, or part can be positively charged and part negatively charged. Spring(s) can be between the mass and the first plate or between the mass and the second plate, or both. Electric current(s) can be applied to a node in the first plate, a node in the second plate, or both, which causes the mass to shift to output a haptic effect.