A simulator assembly (600) for simulating the tactile response of an item isdisclosed. The simulator assembly includes a playback module (602) havingsensory modulation subunits (636) operable to exert a force in response to aninput signal. A tactile playback assembly (800) for translating input signalsinto tactile sensations upon a user is also provided. The tactile playbackassembly includes a playback garment (806) having sensory modulation subunitsadapted to generate a force upon a user in response to an input signal. Animaging exam assembly (900) for palpating a body and obtaining images of thebody is also disclosed. An ultrasonic imaging system is further disclosed. Adevice for remotely conducting a direct manual examination of a patient isdisclosed. A method of imparting tactile sensations to a body of a user isdisclosed. A method of recording tactile data is disclosed.
