The skin can become a pathway to language.
Touch is always available, private and capable of carrying structured information. RHEMA uses this powerful sensory channel to create a new way of perceiving communication.
A Different Sensory Channel
Touch provides an alternative route for receiving information when sound is unavailable, difficult to perceive or inappropriate for the environment.
Structured, Not Random
RHEMA does not simply reproduce sound as vibration. It uses consistent tactile patterns designed to represent meaningful elements of language.
Designed for Learning
Repeated tactile patterns can be practised, recognised and remembered, allowing users to build familiarity progressively.
Private and Discreet
Tactile information can be received without disturbing others, displaying a screen or relying on continuous audio feedback.
Speech Input
Spoken information enters the RHEMA system through a connected microphone or digital source.
Language Processing
Speech is analysed and converted into structured tactile-language instructions.
Tactile Patterns
A wearable device delivers distinct vibration patterns through the skin.
Learned Meaning
Through training and repetition, users learn to associate patterns with linguistic meaning.
The intelligence behind tactile language.
RHEMA Core is the processing architecture that transforms speech and digital information into precise, repeatable tactile patterns designed for human learning.
Speech Understanding
Incoming speech is captured and analysed to identify meaningful linguistic elements before tactile conversion begins.
Tactile Encoding
Language is translated into standardized vibration families, pulse durations and timing relationships.
Low-Latency Processing
Local processing supports rapid response, reliable operation and reduced dependence on continuous internet connectivity.
Expandable Architecture
The core platform is designed to support wearable products, learning systems, research tools and future assistive applications.
Capture
Receive speech, text or digital information from a connected source.
Interpret
Identify linguistic units and prepare them for tactile representation.
Encode
Convert information into consistent tactile-language instructions.
Deliver
Transmit precise tactile patterns to a compatible RHEMA device.
Turning Speech Into Touch
RHEMA transforms spoken language into structured tactile patterns that can be delivered through a wearable wrist device, building on research in tactile communication and sensory substitution.
Listen
Capture spoken language using a microphone or connected device.
Understand
Speech recognition and language processing identify words and linguistic features.
Translate
RHEMA converts speech into structured tactile phonetic patterns.
Deliver
Precision actuators generate tactile patterns on the wearable device.
Learn
Users progressively learn tactile language through practice and repetition.
Platform Architecture
Core Technologies
| Technology | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Speech Recognition | Converts spoken language into linguistic information. |
| Language Processing | Interprets words and prepares them for tactile encoding. |
| Tactile Phonetics | Maps speech into structured tactile patterns. |
| Haptic Actuators | Generate tactile output through the wearable device. |
| Learning System | Supports adaptation through repeated use and training. |
Rather than amplifying sound, RHEMA explores an alternative communication pathway by representing linguistic information through touch using structured tactile patterns inspired by published tactile communication research.
See RHEMA in action.
View demonstrations of tactile learning, wearable communication research and early RHEMA user trials.
Tactile Classroom
A tactile class demonstration involving deaf children in Chennai, Tamil Nadu.
RHEMA Device
A demonstration of the RHEMA speech-to-touch tactile communication device.
Research Interaction
Dr. Ted Moallem interacting with CSI students during tactile communication research.
First-Time Trainees
Early tactile-pattern training involving students from a deaf school in Chennai.
Engineering trust into every layer
Safety by Design
Safety is a fundamental consideration throughout the development of the RHEMA wearable platform.
Certified components
We carefully select commercially available components from reputable manufacturers, including wireless modules, haptic actuators, batteries and supporting electronics supplied with recognized certifications such as UL, BIS and CE.
Established engineering practices
The electronic design follows established engineering practices and IEEE-based design principles for power distribution, signal integrity, electromagnetic compatibility and reliable system operation.
Skin-conscious materials
The wearable interface incorporates a clinically approved skin-contact gel adhesive selected to support comfort during extended use.
Ongoing validation
Every design decision—from component selection to tactile delivery—is made with the goal of creating a safe, comfortable and practical assistive technology. RHEMA continues to refine the platform through ongoing engineering, testing and validation.
Component certifications apply to the individual components supplied by their respective manufacturers and do not represent certification of the complete RHEMA device.