Block types
Blocks are the individual elements of haptic patterns. There are three different types of blocks:
Vibration
The Vibration block produces a vibration that can range from a sharp buzz to a deep rumble.
Pulse
The Pulse block represents a short, but strong impulse like in a mouse click or when pressing a mechanical button.
Actuators of type Voice coil are the most suitable to realize Pulses. On LRAs, the achievable amplitude is often limited to very low values, and on ERMs, Pulses can feel like vibrations.
Pause
The Pause block corresponds to no movement of the haptic actuator. Just like rests in music, they might seem inconspicuous, but can add great value!
Block interactions
Selecting blocks
Blocks can be selected with a single click on them. The currently selected block is marked with a line underneath it.
Moving blocks
When hovering with the mouse over a block, the mouse cursor turns into a dragging symbol. In this situation, you can hold down the mouse button and pull the block to the right or left to place it at a different place in its track.
Creating blocks
At the end of every track, there is a panel showing a “+”-Symbol. After clicking this panel, you can create a block of the desired type by clicking the respective panel. The block will be appended to the end of the track, but you can move it to any location within the track (see Moving blocks).
Duplicating blocks
A block can be duplicated either by right-clicking it and selecting the corresponding option, or by selecting the block and using the “Edit” drop-down menu.
Deleting blocks
A block can be deleted by right-clicking it and selecting the corresponding option. Alternatively, you can select the block and then click the trash bin icon on the top left of the Track Editor or use the “Edit” drop-down menu. You can also hover over the block and click the trash bin icon on the top left of the block to delete it.
Copying blocks
By right-clicking a block and selecting the corresponding option, you can copy it. Alternatively, you can select the block and use the “Edit” drop-down menu.
Cutting blocks
By right-clicking a block, you can cut it (remove it from the view and save it to the clipboard so you can paste it later). Alternatively, you can select the block and use the “Edit” drop-down menu.
Pasting tracks
By right-clicking anywhere in a track, you can paste a previously copied block to the position of the right-click. Alternatively, you can select a track and use the “Edit” drop-down menu to paste the block at the end of the track.
