DEVICE

Abstract

[Task] To present a user with a greater variety of haptic sensations. [Solvent] There is provided a device comprising: a first accommodating space and a second accommodating space containing a fluid, which are partitioned using an elastically deformable wall portion; a generating unit that generates a plurality of signals based on haptic feedback or a control signal for notifying information to a user who uses the device; and a supply and discharge unit that, based on the signal generated by the generating unit, supplies the fluid to the first accommodating space and the second accommodating space and discharges the fluid from the first accommodating space and the second accommodating space, wherein the first accommodating space is stacked on the second accommodating space so that the first accommodating space is located between the second accommodating space and the user in a state where the device is used by the user.

Description

Technical area

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a device. State of the art

[0002] In recent years, technologies have been developed to present users with various haptic sensations. For example, Patent Literature 1 discloses a technology for controlling the inflow and outflow of a fluid into and from a space to move a plurality of layers closer to or away from each other, thereby changing the hardness of a surface touched by a user to change a haptic sensation to be presented to the user. Citation listPatent literature

[0003] Patent literature 1: WO 2021 / 090712 Disclosure of the inventionTechnical problem

[0004] To further improve the user experience, it is desirable to present the user with a greater variety of haptic sensations. Solution to the problem

[0005] According to the present disclosure, there is provided a device comprising: a first accommodating space and a second accommodating space containing a fluid, which are partitioned using an elastically deformable wall portion; a generating unit that generates a plurality of signals based on haptic feedback or a control signal for notifying information to a user who uses the device; and a supply and discharge unit that, based on the signal generated by the generating unit, supplies the fluid to the first accommodating space and the second accommodating space and discharges the fluid from the first accommodating space and the second accommodating space, wherein the first accommodating space is stacked on the second accommodating space such that the first accommodating space is located between the second accommodating space and the user in a state where the device is used by the user. Short description of the drawings [ Fig. 1] A schematic view showing an example of an overall configuration of a haptic presentation device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [ Fig. 2] A schematic view showing an example of a configuration of an upper layer 10. [ Fig. 3] A schematic view showing an example of a configuration of a lower layer 20. [ Fig. 4] An explanatory diagram showing an example of an internal configuration of a haptic presentation device 1 according to the embodiment of the present disclosure. [ Fig. 5] An explanatory view of a cross-sectional configuration obtained by viewing the haptic presentation device 1 along the Fig. 3 and Fig. Line II shown in Figure 4 is obtained. [ Fig. 6] An explanatory view of a cross-sectional configuration obtained by viewing the haptic presentation device 1 along the Fig. 3 and Fig. Line II shown in Figure 4 is obtained. [ Fig. 7] An explanatory diagram showing an example in which a generating unit 121 generates a plurality of drive signals by filtering a control signal on a time axis. [ Fig. 8] An explanatory diagram showing an example in which the generating unit 121 generates a first signal and a second signal. [ Fig. 9] An explanatory diagram showing an example in which the generating unit 121 generates a drive signal by separating a control signal depending on whether the strength of the control signal is positive or negative. [ Fig. 10] An explanatory diagram showing a graph showing a corresponding relationship between a value indicating a position included in a control signal and an amplitude value of a drive signal stored in a storage unit 150. [ Fig. 11] An explanatory diagram showing an example of a drive signal generated by the generating unit 121 based on the Fig. 10 is generated when a user U moves the position of a slider rod to the right. [ Fig. 12] An explanatory diagram showing an example in which the generating unit 121 generates a result obtained by dividing a pressure value indicated by the control signal by 2 as a drive signal. [ Fig. 13] A flowchart showing an example of a flow of operation processing of the haptic presentation device 1 according to the present embodiment. [ Fig. 14] A configuration view of a haptic presentation device 1 according to a first application example. [ Fig. 15] A view showing an example of a controller on which a haptic presentation device 1 according to a second application example is mounted. [ Fig. 16] A configuration view of a haptic presentation device 1 according to a third application example. [ Fig. 17] A view showing an example in which the Fig. 16 shown haptic presentation device 1 is mounted inside a vehicle. [ Fig. 18] Another example of an upper layer 10 of the haptic presentation device 1 according to the third application example. [ Fig. 19] Another example of the upper layer 10 of the haptic presentation device 1 according to the third application example. [ Fig. 20] A block diagram showing a hardware configuration example of the haptic presentation device 1. [ Fig. 21] Another example of the upper layer 10 of the haptic presentation device 1. [ Fig. 22] Another example of the upper layer 10 of the haptic presentation device 1. [ Fig. 23] Another example of the upper layer 10 of the haptic presentation device 1. Mode(s) for carrying out the invention

[0006] Advantageous embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Note that in the present description and the drawings, components with substantially the same functional configurations are denoted by the same reference numerals, and duplicate descriptions are omitted.

[0007] Furthermore, in the present specification and drawings, a plurality of components having substantially the same functional configurations are sometimes distinguished by adding a different alphabet or a combination of a plurality of alphabets following the same reference symbol. Note that in a case where it is not particularly necessary to distinguish the plurality of components having substantially the same functional configurations from each other, each of the plurality of components is denoted only by the same reference symbol.

[0008] It should be noted that the descriptions are given in the following order. 1. Overall configuration of a haptic presentation device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure 2. Internal configuration of a haptic presentation device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure 3. Generation example of a control signal by the generation unit 121 4. Operation processing example according to the present embodiment 5. Application examples 6. Hardware configuration 7. Addition <1. Overall configuration of a haptic presentation device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure>

[0009] Fig. Figure 1 is a schematic view showing an example of an overall configuration of a haptic presentation device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The haptic presentation device 1 is an example of a device in the present disclosure. As shown in Fig. As shown in Figure 1, the haptic presentation device 1 includes an upper-layer receiving space 11A, an upper-layer receiving space 11B, and a lower-layer receiving space 21. The upper-layer receiving space 11 is an example of a first receiving space. The lower-layer receiving space 21 is an example of a second receiving space. In the present description, in a case where it is not particularly necessary to distinguish the upper-layer receiving space 11 and the lower-layer receiving space 21 from each other, they are simply referred to as receiving spaces.

[0010] Display surfaces 14 (display surface 14A and display surface 14B) of wall portions separating the upper-layer accommodation spaces 11, which are wall portions exposed to the outside, are elastically deformable. In a state where the display surfaces 14 are used by the user U, the display surfaces 14 are held in contact with a body part of the user U, such as a finger or palm. The display surfaces 14 are capable of providing the user U with various haptic sensations by being elastically deformed.

[0011] The upper layer accommodation spaces 11 are stacked on the lower layer accommodation space 21, so that the upper layer accommodation spaces 11 are located between the lower layer accommodation space 21 and the user U in a state in which they are used by the user U. In the Fig. In the example shown in Figure 1, the upper layer receiving spaces 11 are partitioned into an upper layer 10 (an example of a layer). Furthermore, the lower layer receiving space 21 is partitioned into a lower layer 20 (an example of the layer) stacked on the upper layer 10.

[0012] Wall portions of the wall portions separating the receiving spaces 11 of the upper layer, which are held in contact with the wall portions separating the receiving space 21 of the lower layer, are elastically deformable. Furthermore, wall portions of the wall portions separating the receiving space 21 of the lower layer, which are held in contact with the wall portions separating the receiving spaces 11 of the upper layer, are elastically deformable. The elastically deformable material can be, for example, rubber, silicone, vinyl chloride resin, or the like.

[0013] The wall portions of the wall portions partitioning the upper layer accommodation spaces 11 held in contact with the wall portions partitioning the lower layer accommodation space 21 and the wall portions of the wall portions partitioning the lower layer accommodation space 21 held in contact with the wall portions partitioning the upper layer accommodation spaces 11 may be integrally configured. Fig. 1 shows an example in which a part of the wall portions partitioning the upper layer accommodating space 11A, a part of the wall portions partitioning the upper layer accommodating space 11B, and a part of the wall portions partitioning the lower layer accommodating space 21 are integrally configured as a layer isolation portion 13.

[0014] Next, with reference to Fig. 2 a configuration of the upper layer 10, which in Fig. 1 is described in detail. Fig. 2 is a schematic view showing an example of the configuration of the upper layer 10. Fig. Figure 2 shows a view of the upper layer 10 as viewed from the side of the presentation surfaces 14 in contact with the user U. As in Fig. 2, the upper layer 10 comprises upper layer receiving spaces 11A to 11C and outflow and inflow openings 12A to 12C.

[0015] The upper-layer accommodation spaces 11 are spaces capable of containing a fluid. The type of fluid contained in the upper-layer accommodation spaces 11 is not particularly limited. For example, the type of fluid contained in the upper-layer accommodation spaces 11 may be a gas such as air or helium, or may be a liquid such as water or oil. Outflow and inflow ports 12 are provided in the upper-layer accommodation spaces 11. A fluid is supplied into the upper-layer accommodation spaces 11 through the outflow and inflow ports 12. Alternatively, a fluid is discharged from the upper-layer accommodation spaces 11 through the outflow and inflow ports 12.

[0016] The upper-layer accommodation spaces 11 are partitioned by the wall portions. It is desirable to use a material, such as plastic or metal, that is elastically deformed by the pressure of the fluid contained in the upper-layer accommodation spaces 11 for the wall portions that isolate the adjacent upper-layer accommodation spaces 11. Moreover, after the upper-layer accommodation spaces 11 are partitioned by the wall portions formed of a material that is elastically deformed, the upper-layer accommodation spaces 11 can be further isolated by a material that is not elastically deformed. With this configuration, the upper-layer accommodation space 11 is hardly affected by a pressure that depends on a volume change of a fluid contained in the other upper-layer accommodation spaces 11.Therefore, the user can more easily recognize that a haptic sensation represented by the inflow and outflow of the fluid contained in the upper layer receiving space 11 is a haptic sensation different from a haptic sensation represented by the inflow and outflow of the fluid contained in the other upper layer receiving spaces 11.

[0017] Furthermore, the wall portions exposed to the outside of the wall portions partitioning the upper-layer accommodation spaces 11, except for the display surfaces 14 (not shown), may be formed of a material that is not elastically deformed by the pressure of the fluid contained in the upper-layer accommodation spaces 11. Furthermore, after the upper-layer accommodation spaces 11 are partitioned by the wall portions formed of a material that is elastically deformed, the wall portions exposed to the outside of the display surfaces 14 may be further covered with a material that is not elastically deformed. Accordingly, only the display surfaces 14 of the wall portions exposed to the outside, which are touched by the user, are elastically deformed by the inflow and outflow of the fluid. Thus, the display surfaces 14 are elastically deformed more efficiently.

[0018] The volumes of the upper layer receiving spaces 11A to 11C partitioned in the upper layer 10 may be the same or different. In addition, the shapes of the upper layer receiving spaces 11A to 11C partitioned in the upper layer 10 may be the same or different. Although Fig. 2 shows an example in which the three upper-layer recording rooms 11 are partitioned in the upper layer 10, moreover, the number of the upper-layer recording rooms 11 is not particularly limited as long as one or more upper-layer recording rooms 11 are partitioned in the upper layer 10.

[0019] Next, with reference to Fig. 3 a configuration of the lower layer 20 is described in detail. Fig. 3 is a schematic view showing an example of a configuration of the lower layer 20. Fig. Figure 3 shows a schematic view of the lower layer 20 as viewed from the side of the upper layer 10. As in Fig. 3, the lower layer 20 comprises the lower layer receiving space 21 and an outflow and inflow opening 12D.

[0020] The lower-layer accommodation space 21 is a space capable of containing a fluid. The lower-layer accommodation space 21 contains the same fluid as or a different fluid from the fluid contained in the upper-layer accommodation spaces 11. The outflow and inflow port 12D is provided in the lower-layer accommodation space 21. A fluid contained in the lower-layer accommodation space 21 is supplied through the outflow and inflow port 12D. Alternatively, a fluid is discharged from the lower-layer accommodation space 21 through the outflow and inflow port 12D.

[0021] It should be noted that, although Fig. 3 shows an example in which the lower layer 20 includes the single lower-layer accommodating space 21, and the lower-layer accommodating space 21 is stacked over the plurality of upper-layer accommodating spaces 11. The number of lower-layer accommodating spaces 21 partitioned in the lower layer 20 is not particularly limited as long as they are one or more lower-layer accommodating spaces 21. Moreover, the lower-layer accommodating space 21 may be stacked over the plurality of upper-layer accommodating spaces 11, or may be stacked on only one upper-layer accommodating space 11. Note that in a case where two or more lower-layer accommodating spaces 21 are partitioned in the lower layer 20, the lower-layer accommodating spaces 21 are partitioned with a configuration similar to that in the case where the plurality of upper-layer accommodating spaces 11 are partitioned in the upper layer 10. <2. Internal configuration of a haptic presentation device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure>

[0022] Next, with reference to Fig. 4 describes an internal configuration of the haptic presentation device 1 according to the embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. 4 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of an internal configuration of the haptic presentation device 1 according to the embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown in Fig. 4, the haptic presentation device 1 comprises the upper layer receiving space 11A, the upper layer receiving space 11B, the lower layer receiving space 21, a communication unit 110, a control unit 120, supply and discharge units 130A to 130C, a sensor unit 140, and a storage unit 150. It should be noted that the Fig. 4 is an example, and the configuration of the haptic presentation device 1 is not limited thereto. (Communication unit 110)

[0023] The communication unit 110 is connected to an external device via a wired or wireless connection for communicating and exchanging data. For example, the communication unit 110 receives haptic feedback or a control signal from the external device for information notification to a user using the haptic presentation device 1 via wireless communication, such as Wi-Fi (registered trademark) or Bluetooth (registered trademark). (Control unit 120)

[0024] The control unit 120 functions as an arithmetic processing device and a control device, and controls general operations in the haptic presentation device 1 according to various programs. The control unit 120 is implemented by an electronic circuit, such as a central processing unit (CPU) or a microprocessor. Furthermore, the control unit 120 may include a read-only memory (ROM) for storing programs, arithmetic operation parameters, and the like to be used, and a random access memory (RAM) for temporarily storing parameters and the like that are changed as needed. (Generation unit 121)

[0025] The control unit 120 according to the present embodiment also functions as the generation unit 121. The generation unit 121 generates a variety of signals based on a control signal received from the communication unit 110. A signal for controlling the driving of the supply and discharge units 130, which is generated by the generation unit 121, is referred to as a drive signal. A generation method for the drive signal by the generation unit 121 will be described in detail later. (Feed and discharge unit 130)

[0026] The supply and discharge units 130 supply the fluid to the receiving space and discharge the fluid from the receiving space through the outflow and inflow openings 12. It should be noted that in the present description, the supply of the fluid to the receiving space and the discharge of the fluid from the receiving space are also referred to as the inflow and outflow of the fluid into and from the receiving spaces. A plurality of supply and discharge units 130 are provided corresponding to the respective receiving spaces. For example, Fig. 4 shows an example in which the supply and discharge unit 130A is provided corresponding to the upper layer accommodating space 11A, the supply and discharge unit 130B is provided corresponding to the upper layer accommodating space 11B, and the supply and discharge unit 130C is provided corresponding to the lower layer accommodating space 21.

[0027] The supply and discharge units 130 have flow channels. The flow channels are connected to the outflow and inflow openings 12, which are a supply opening for a fluid to the receiving space and a discharge opening for a fluid from the receiving space.

[0028] The supply and discharge units 130 may include supply sources that store a fluid to be contained in the accommodation spaces. Note that a supply source may be provided in each of the supply and discharge units 130 corresponding to the accommodation spaces, or a single supply source may be shared by the plurality of supply and discharge units 130. Furthermore, in a case where the fluid is air, the supply source may be omitted. In this case, the supply and discharge units 130 supply the outside air to the accommodation spaces and discharge the air from the accommodation spaces to the outside.

[0029] The supply and discharge units 130 supply the fluid to the receiving spaces from the supply source via the flow channels and the outflow and inflow openings 12 by driving a drive unit, e.g., a fan, a blower, or a pump. Furthermore, the supply and discharge units 130 discharge the fluid from the receiving spaces through the outflow and inflow openings 12 and the flow channels to the supply source by driving the drive unit. Furthermore, the supply and discharge units 130 may include a device capable of opening and closing, such as a valve. For example, the supply and discharge units 130 open and close the valve by driving the drive unit and retain a fluid, such as air, in the receiving space. Accordingly, the receiving spaces are capable of retaining a fluid in the receiving spaces even after the driving of the drive unit has stopped.Therefore, compared with a case where the drive unit is further driven, the power consumption can be reduced if the wall surfaces of the receiving spaces are further deformed.

[0030] The supply and discharge units 130 supply and discharge the fluid based on a drive signal generated by the generation unit 121. More specifically, the control unit 120 controls the drive unit of the supply and discharge units 130 to supply and discharge the fluid based on the drive signal.

[0031] Here, changes in the presentation surfaces 14 caused by the inflow and outflow of the fluid into and from the receiving spaces through the supply and discharge units 130 are described with reference to Fig. 5 and Fig. 6 described. Fig. 5 and Fig. 6 are explanatory views showing cross-sectional configurations each of which can be obtained by viewing the haptic presentation device 1 along the lines shown in Fig. 3 and Fig. Line II shown in Figure 4 is obtained.

[0032] The presentation surfaces 14 are elastically deformed by the supply and discharge units 130, causing the fluid to flow into and out of the receiving spaces 11 of the upper layer, thereby providing the user with a haptic sensation. For example, the presentation surface 14A changes into a state that protrudes toward the user, as shown in Fig. 5, from a flat state as in Fig. 1, by the supply and discharge units 130, which supply the fluid to the receiving space 11A of the upper layer. Then, the presentation surface 14A changes to the flat state, as shown in Fig. 1, from the state that precedes the user, as in Fig. 5, by the supply and discharge units 130, which discharge the fluid from the upper layer receiving space 11A.

[0033] The user perceives a haptic sensation due to such a change in the state of the presentation surface 14A, such as a sensation of the presentation surface 14A vibrating or a sensation (pressure sensation) of detecting pressure from the presentation surface 14A. According to a change rate of the state of the presentation surface 14A, a degree of protrusion, and the like, the user perceives a vibrating sensation or a pressure sensation. For example, in a case where the inflow and outflow of the fluid into and from the upper-layer accommodating space 11A is performed at a frequency of 100 Hz, the presentation surface 14A presents vibration to the user. For another example, in a case where the fluid is supplied so that the volume of the fluid contained in the upper-layer accommodating space 11A increases linearly, the presentation surface 14A presents pressure to the user.Furthermore, the supply and discharge units 130 can perform the inflow and outflow of the fluid so that the user presentation surface 14A changes from the state projecting to the user through the flat state to a depressed state.

[0034] Furthermore, in a case where the supply and discharge units 130 cause the fluid to flow into and out of the lower-layer accommodation spaces 21, the layer insulation portion 13 is deformed. Then, due to the deformation of the layer insulation portion 13, the presentation surfaces 14 of the upper-layer accommodation spaces 11 stacked on the lower-layer accommodation space 21 are deformed, thereby providing a tactile sensation to the user.

[0035] For example, when the lower layer receiving space 21 is supplied with the fluid, the presentation surface 14A and the presentation surface 14B of the upper layer receiving space 11A and the upper layer receiving space 11B change to a state that is protruding to the user, as shown in Fig. 6, from the flat state as in Fig. 1 shown.

[0036] The inflow and outflow of the fluid into and out of the receiving space 21 of the lower layer are carried out similarly to the inflow and outflow of the fluid into and out of the receiving spaces 11 of the upper layer. Accordingly, the state of the presentation surfaces 14 changes, and the user perceives a haptic sensation, such as a sensation of the presentation surfaces 14 vibrating or a pressure sensation.

[0037] Here, the supply and discharge units 130 can perform the inflow and outflow of the fluid into and from the upper-layer accommodation spaces 11 and the inflow and outflow of the fluid into and from the lower-layer accommodation space 21 stacked on the upper-layer accommodation spaces 11 at the same time or at different times. In a case where the inflow and outflow of the fluid into and from the upper-layer accommodation spaces 11 and the inflow and outflow of the fluid into and from the lower-layer accommodation space 21 are performed simultaneously according to different signals, the user can simultaneously perceive a variety of different haptic sensations from the presentation surfaces 14.

[0038] For example, the inflow and outflow of fluid into and from the receiving spaces 11 of the upper layer are carried out according to a signal that allows the user to detect a vibration of the presentation surfaces 14, and the inflow and outflow of fluid into and from the receiving space 21 of the lower layer are carried out according to a signal that allows the user, in some cases, to detect pressure from the presentation surfaces 14. In this case, the presentation surfaces 14 are capable of providing the user with a vibrating sensation and a pressure sensation simultaneously.

[0039] Furthermore, the supply and discharge units 130 can perform the inflow and outflow of the fluid into and from the plurality of upper layer receiving spaces 11 at the same time or at different times. For example, the supply and discharge units 130 sequentially perform the inflow and outflow of the fluid into and from the upper layer receiving spaces 11 adjacent to each other, so that the presentation surfaces 14 are able to give the user a movement sensation. Using a more specific example, in a case where the user U's finger is in contact with the presentation surface 14A and the presentation surface 14B as shown in Fig. 1 is held when the supply and discharge units 130 perform the inflow and outflow of the fluid into and from the lower layer receiving space 21 after the inflow and outflow of the fluid into and from the upper layer receiving space 11A, a sensation of movement to the right.

[0040] The user can experience a more complex haptic sensation by simultaneously performing the inflow and outflow of fluid into and from the plurality of upper-layer receiving spaces 11 and the inflow and outflow of fluid into and from the lower-layer receiving space 21, or a simple haptic sensation by performing the inflow and outflow of fluid into only one receiving space. This configuration allows the user to experience various haptic sensations.

[0041] As a comparative example of the haptic presentation device 1 in the present embodiment, a device capable of presenting vibration, such as a vibrating element, may be combined with a device that moves a resin with a motor or the like to present a pressure sensation, thereby presenting vibration and a pressure sensation to the user.

[0042] However, the comparative example has a problem in that, compared to the haptic presentation device 1 in the present embodiment, more types of mechanical parts should be provided, or a plurality of control methods are required to control a plurality of devices. On the other hand, the haptic presentation device 1 in the present embodiment is capable of presenting vibration and pressure sensation through the same control method, and therefore, the mechanical parts and the control circuit can be simplified. Moreover, a more detailed pressure sensation can be presented by presenting a pressure sensation by the inflow and outflow of the fluid, compared to presenting a pressure sensation by moving a resin with a motor or the like.

[0043] So far, the change in the presentation surfaces 14 provided by the supply and discharge unit 130, which supplies and discharges the fluid, has been described. The generation unit 121 generates a drive signal that is used when the supply and discharge unit 130 causes the fluid to flow in and out. Then, the control unit 120 determines a receiving space into and out of which the fluid flows based on the drive signal. For example, the control unit 120 may determine a receiving space into and out of which the fluid flows based on the signal based on an amplitude value of the drive signal generated by the generation unit 121.

[0044] For example, it is assumed that a floor area of ​​the upper-layer accommodation space 11 is equal to a floor area of ​​the lower-layer accommodation space 21 stacked on the upper-layer accommodation space 11 in a case where the thickness of the upper layer 10 and the lower layer 20 is defined as a height. Furthermore, it is assumed that the presentation surface 14 and the layer isolation region 13 are in the flat state, and the volume of the lower-layer accommodation space 21 is larger than the volume of the upper-layer accommodation space 11. At this time, in a case where the amplitude value is equal to or less than a threshold value, the control unit 120 can determine the upper-layer accommodation space 11 as a accommodation space into and out of which the fluid flows based on the drive signal having this amplitude value.Furthermore, in a case where the amplitude value is larger than the threshold value, the control unit 120 may determine the lower layer receiving space 21 as a receiving space into and out of which the fluid flows based on the drive signal having that amplitude value.

[0045] Furthermore, the control unit 120 can determine a receiving space into and out of which the fluid flows based on the drive signal according to a frequency of the drive signal. Furthermore, the control unit 120 can determine a receiving space into and out of which the fluid flows based on the drive signal depending on whether the drive signal is a signal capable of providing the user with a vibrating sensation or a signal capable of providing the user with a pressure sensation. (Sensor unit 140)

[0046] The sensor unit 140 is a sensor that detects the state of the receiving spaces. For example, the sensor unit 140 may be a pressure sensor that detects each receiving space or a pressure related to the user's finger in contact with the presentation surfaces 14 provided in each receiving space. Here, the pressure sensors may be provided in the flow channels or the outflow and inflow openings 12. Furthermore, the sensor unit 140 may be distance sensors that measure a distance between the wall areas provided in the wall areas that divide each receiving space. Furthermore, the sensor unit 140 may be contact detection sensors that detect contact between the wall areas provided in the wall areas that divide each receiving space.

[0047] The control unit 120 can control the inflow and outflow of the fluid through the supply and discharge units 130 based on a measurement result by the sensor unit 140. For example, in a case where the sensor unit 140 detects a pressure equal to or greater than a threshold value or a distance equal to or less than a threshold value, the control unit 120 can stop the supply of the fluid to the receiving space. Then, the control unit 120 can perform control to stop the supply of the fluid to the receiving space and then start the supply of the fluid to the receiving space stacked on this receiving space. (Storage unit 150)

[0048] The storage unit 150 is realized by a ROM for storing programs, arithmetic operation parameters and the like to be used for the processing of the control unit 120, and a RAM for temporarily storing parameters and the like that are changed as necessary. <3. Generation example of a control signal by the generation unit 121>

[0049] Next, an example of the generation method for the drive signal by the generation unit 121 will be described with reference to Fig. 7 to Fig. 11 described.

[0050] The generation unit 121 generates a plurality of drive signals based on a control signal received from the communication unit 110. The generation unit 121 can generate a plurality of drive signals, for example, by filtering a control signal on the time axis. Fig. 7 is an explanatory diagram showing an example in which the generating unit 121 generates a plurality of drive signals by filtering a control signal on the time axis.

[0051] A diagram that Fig. Figure 7, shown on the left, shows an example of a control signal received by the communication unit 110. The control signal is a signal that indicates a time on the horizontal axis and a strength on the vertical axis. It should be noted that the parameters of the Fig. 7 are exemplary and other values, e.g. pressure values, can be used as parameters instead of the strength.

[0052] The diagram shown in Fig. The diagram shown in the upper right of Figure 7 and the diagram shown in the lower right show two drive signals obtained by filtering a control signal on the time axis. In this way, the generation unit 121 generates a plurality of signals by filtering a control signal to extract signals in different time domains.

[0053] The control unit 120 determines, for each of the plurality of drive signals, a receiving space into and out of which the fluid flows based on the drive signal. For example, the control unit 120 may determine a receiving space into and out of which the fluid flows based on the drive signal based on combinations of time ranges for extracting the drive signals from the control signal and receiving spaces pre-stored in the storage unit 150.

[0054] Although Fig. 7 shows an example in which two drive signals are generated, the number of signals to be generated is not particularly limited and a plurality of drive signals can be generated, assuming that the number of recording rooms is their upper limit.

[0055] As another example of the generation method of the drive signal by the generation unit 121, the generation unit 121 may generate a drive signal (first signal) having a frequency component of a frequency equal to or higher than a predetermined frequency in the control signal and a drive signal (second signal) having a frequency component of a frequency lower than the first signal in the control signal.

[0056] Fig. 8 is an explanatory diagram showing an example in which the generating unit 121 generates the first signal and the second signal. The generating unit 121 can generate the first signal by extracting a frequency component of a frequency equal to or higher than a predetermined frequency through a high-pass filter. Moreover, the generating unit 121 can generate the second signal by extracting a frequency component of a frequency lower than a frequency of the first signal used to generate the first signal through a low-pass filter.

[0057] The left diagram of Fig. Figure 8 is an example of the control signal received by the communication unit 110. The control signal is a signal that indicates time on the horizontal axis and intensity on the vertical axis. The diagram shown in Fig. 8 top right, and the diagram shown in Fig. 8 shown at the bottom right shows two drive signals obtained by filtering the control signal through the high-pass filter and the low-pass filter.

[0058] For each of the thus generated drive signals, the control unit 120 determines a receiving space into and out of which the fluid flows based on the drive signal. At this time, the control unit 120 may determine a receiving space such that the drive signal for the supply and discharge units 130 for causing the fluid to flow into and out of the upper-layer receiving spaces 11 and the drive signal for the supply and discharge units 130 for causing the fluid to flow into and out of the lower-layer receiving space 21 are signals of different frequencies.

[0059] For example, the control unit 120 designates a receiving space corresponding to the first signal as the upper-layer receiving spaces 11 and designates a receiving space corresponding to the second signal as the lower-layer receiving space 21, which is stacked on the upper-layer receiving spaces 11. Accordingly, the presentation surfaces 14 can present the user with a vibrating sensation due to the fluid flowing into and out of the upper-layer receiving spaces 11 and a pressure sensation due to the fluid flowing into and out of the lower-layer receiving space 21.It should be noted that, depending on the frequency of the second signal, the presentation surfaces 14 can present the user with a vibration that differs in vibration rate from a vibration provided by the inflow and outflow of fluid into and from the receiving spaces 11 of the upper layer, or by the inflow and outflow of fluid into and from the receiving space 21 of the lower layer. That is, the presentation surfaces 14 can simultaneously present the user with a plurality of vibrations of different rates.

[0060] Moreover, as another example of the generation method of the drive signal by the generation unit 121, the generation unit 121 may generate a plurality of drive signals by separating the control signal depending on whether the strength of the control signal is positive or negative. Fig. 9 is an explanatory diagram showing an example in which the generating unit 121 generates the drive signal by separating the control signal depending on whether the strength of the control signal is positive or negative.

[0061] The diagram to the left of Fig. 9 shows an example of the control signal received by the communication unit 110. The control signal is a signal that indicates time on the horizontal axis and intensity on the vertical axis. The diagram shown in Fig. 9, top right, shows an example of a drive signal generated by separating a signal with a positive magnitude from the control signal. The diagram shown in Fig. Figure 9, shown at the bottom right, shows an example of a drive signal generated by separating a signal having a negative magnitude from the control signal.

[0062] It should be noted that although Fig. 9 shows an example in which the control signal is symmetrical with respect to the positive or negative, the control signal separated by the generating unit 121 need not be symmetrical.

[0063] Furthermore, as another example of the drive signal generation method by the generation unit 121, the generation unit 121 may determine an amplitude value of each of the plurality of drive signals based on the control signal. For example, the storage unit 150 may store a corresponding relationship between the value indicating the position included in the control signal and the amplitude value of the drive signal to be used for the inflow and outflow of the fluid through the supply and discharge units 130. The generation unit 121 determines an amplitude value corresponding to the value indicating the position as the amplitude value of the drive signal and generates a drive signal whose amplitude is this amplitude value and whose frequency is a predetermined frequency.Then, the control unit 120 may determine each of the plurality of mutually adjacent upper layer receiving spaces 11 among the plurality of upper layer receiving spaces 11 as a receiving space into and out of which the fluid flows based on each of the plurality of drive signals.

[0064] Here, a generation example of the drive signal by the generation unit 121 using the above-mentioned method in a case where the finger of the user U comes into contact with the presentation surface 14A and the presentation surface 14B as shown in Fig. 1, with reference to Fig. 10 and Fig. 11 described.

[0065] Fig. 10 is an explanatory diagram showing a graph showing a corresponding relationship between the value indicating the position included in the control signal and the amplitude value of the drive signal stored in the storage unit 150. In Fig. 10, a corresponding relationship between the value indicating the position included in the control signal and an amplitude value of a drive signal (drive signal for L) to be used for the inflow and outflow of the fluid into and from the upper layer receiving space 11A having the display surface 14A, which is a display surface 14 on the left side as viewed from the user U, is shown as a solid line. In addition, in Fig. 10, a corresponding relationship between the value indicating the position included in the control signal and an amplitude value of a drive signal (drive signal for R) represented by the inflow and outflow of the fluid into and from the upper layer accommodating space 11B having the presentation surface 14B on the right side as viewed from the user U is shown as a dotted line.

[0066] Here, the value indicating the position included in the control signal may be, for example, the value indicating the position of a slide rod that can be operated by the user U, displayed on the external device. Fig. Fig. 11 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a drive signal generated by the generating unit 121 based on the Fig. 10 is generated when the user U moves the position of the slider rod to the right. Fig. 11 shows the control signal for L generated by the generating unit 121 on the basis of the Fig. 10 shown corresponding relationship is generated as a solid line. In addition, Fig. 11 the control signal for R, which is generated by the generating unit 121 on the basis of the Fig. 10 shown corresponding relationship is generated as a dotted line.

[0067] By the generating unit 121 generating the control signal in this way, the presentation surfaces 14 are able to present a sensation of gradual movement to the right when the user U slides the position of the slider rod to the right.

[0068] Furthermore, as another example of the drive signal generation method by the generation unit 121, the generation unit 121 may generate a plurality of drive signals based on a pressure value indicated by the control signal. In a case where the drive signal is a pressure value, the supply and discharge units 130 continue to supply the fluid to the accommodation spaces until the pressure value detected by the sensor unit 140 becomes the pressure value indicated by the drive signal. For example, the generation unit 121 may set a result obtained by subtracting a threshold value from the pressure value indicated by the control signal as the drive signal.

[0069] In addition, the generating unit 121 may set a result obtained by dividing the pressure value indicated by the control signal by a constant as the drive signal. Fig. 12 is an explanatory diagram showing an example in which the generating unit 121 generates a result obtained by dividing the pressure value indicated by the control signal by 2 as the drive signal. Fig. Figure 12 shows a change in the pressure value over time exerted on the user's finger that comes into contact with the presentation surfaces 14.

[0070] The above in Fig. The diagram shown in Figure 12 shows a change in the pressure value over time in a case where the fluid flows into and out of either the upper layer receiving space 11 or the lower layer receiving space 21 and the pressure value exerted on the user's finger coming into contact with the presentation surfaces 14 reaches N. As above in Fig. 12, T1 is a time until the pressure value applied to the user's finger coming into contact with the presentation surfaces 14 reaches N in a case where the fluid is supplied so that the volume of the fluid contained in the upper layer accommodating space 11 or the lower layer accommodating space 21 increases linearly.

[0071] The one in the middle of Fig. The diagram shown in Fig. 12 shows a change in the pressure value over time in a case where the fluid flows into and out of either the upper layer receiving space 11 or the lower layer receiving space 21 and the pressure value exerted on the user's finger that comes into contact with the presentation surfaces 14 reaches N / 2. As shown in the middle of Fig. 12, T2, which is shorter than T1, is a time until the pressure value exerted on the user's finger coming into contact with the presentation surfaces 14 reaches N / 2.

[0072] Here, the generating unit 121 generates N / 2, which is a result obtained by dividing N, i.e., the pressure value indicated by the control signal, by 2, as the drive signal. In a case where the inflow and outflow of the fluid into and from the upper-layer accommodating spaces 11 and the lower-layer accommodating space 21 are controlled by this drive signal, and the lower-layer accommodating space 21 is stacked on the upper-layer accommodating spaces 11, the pressure value exerted on the user's finger that comes into contact with the presentation surfaces 14 changes over time, as shown below in Fig. 12. In such a case, T2 is a time until the pressure value applied to the user's finger that comes into contact with the presentation surfaces 14 reaches N. In this way, in a case where the fluid flows simultaneously into and out of the lower-layer receiving space 21 and the upper-layer receiving space 11, the time until the pressure value applied to the user's finger that comes into contact with the presentation surfaces 14 reaches N is shortened compared to the case where the fluid is caused to flow into and out of either the upper-layer receiving space 11 or the lower-layer receiving space 21. That is, according to the above-mentioned method, the time sensitivity increases as the pressure value applied to the user's finger that comes into contact with the presentation surfaces 14 is caused to reach the pressure value indicated by the control signal.

[0073] Furthermore, as another example of the drive signal generation method by the generation unit 121, the generation unit 121 may generate a plurality of drive signals that are equal in frequency and phase. These drive signals may have the same frequency and phase as the frequency and phase of a control signal. For example, the generation unit 121 may determine amplitude values ​​of the drive signals to be generated based on a threshold value set according to the volume of the accommodation space or the power of the drive unit of the supply and discharge units 130. Then, the control unit 120 determines the upper-layer accommodation spaces 11 and the lower-layer accommodation space 21 stacked on the upper-layer accommodation spaces 11 as accommodation spaces into and out of which the fluid flows based on each of the plurality of drive signals that have the same frequency and phase.

[0074] So far, the generation example of the plurality of drive signals by the generation unit 121 has been described. As described above, the generation unit 121 generates a plurality of drive signals based on the control signal. With such a configuration, a plurality of drive signals can be generated based on a single control signal received from the communication unit 110. Thus, the transmission band can be reduced compared to a case where the communication unit 110 receives a plurality of drive signals. <4. Operation Processing Example According to the Present Embodiment>

[0075] Next, a flow of operation processing of the haptic presentation device 1 according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 13 described. Fig. 13 is a flowchart showing an example of a flow of operation processing of the haptic presentation device 1 according to the present embodiment.

[0076] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 13, first, the communication unit 110 receives a control signal (S101). The generation unit 121 generates a plurality of drive signals based on the control signal received from the communication unit 110 (S102).

[0077] Subsequently, for each of the plurality of control signals generated by the generation unit 121, the control unit 120 determines a receiving space to which or from which the fluid is supplied or discharged based on the control signal (S103). Then, the supply and discharge unit 130 performs the inflow and outflow of the fluid into and from the receiving space based on the control signal (S104). <5. Application examples>

[0078] Next, application examples of the haptic presentation device 1 according to the present disclosure will be described. (First application example)

[0079] First, a first application example is presented with reference to Fig. 14 described. Fig. 14 is a configuration view of the haptic presentation device 1 according to the first application example. The haptic presentation device 1 is mounted on a clip-like fastening tool 2 that can be attached to the user's finger. By attaching the fastening tool 2 so that the haptic presentation device 1 is kept in contact with the ball of the finger, the user is able to perceive a haptic sensation presented by the haptic presentation device 1 while moving the finger. It should be noted that the shape of the fastening tool 2 is not limited to the clip type, as long as the haptic presentation device 1 can be fixed in contact with the user, and, for example, the haptic presentation device 1 can be mounted therein in the shape of a ring.

[0080] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 14, the haptic presentation device 1 includes upper-layer accommodation spaces 11D to 11G. Furthermore, the haptic presentation device 1 includes a lower-layer accommodation space 21 (not shown) stacked on the upper-layer accommodation spaces 11D to 11G. Note that the number of the upper-layer accommodation spaces 11 and the lower-layer accommodation spaces 21 is not limited to this example.

[0081] When the user interacts with a virtual world using the external device, the haptic presentation device 1 according to the first application example can present a haptic sensation. For example, by causing the fluid contained in each of the upper-layer receiving spaces 11 to flow in and out, a vibration can be presented to the user. Then, by causing the fluid contained in the lower-layer receiving space 21 to flow in and out, a pressure sensation can be presented to the user via the upper-layer receiving spaces 11.

[0082] More specifically, when the communication unit 110 has received a control signal based on the user's touch of a virtual object in a virtual world, the supply and discharge units 130 can cause the fluid contained in the lower-layer receiving space 21 to flow in and out, thereby presenting a pressure sensation to the user. Furthermore, while the user is holding this virtual object, the supply and discharge units 130 can cause the fluid contained in the upper-layer receiving spaces 11 to flow in and out, thereby presenting a vibration.Then, in a case where a control signal is received based on the user's action to release the virtual object the user has been holding, the supply and discharge units 130 can cause the fluid contained in the lower-layer receiving space 21 to flow in and out, thereby instantly presenting a pressure sensation to the user. It should be noted that the supply and discharge units 130 can adjust the speed and the like of the fluid flowing into and out of the spaces to be different according to a contact time or a holding time of the virtual object by the user, a distance between the virtual object and the user, or the like, thereby presenting different haptic sensations. (Second application example)

[0083] Next, a second application example is presented with reference to Fig. 15 described. Fig. 15 is a view showing an example of a controller on which the haptic presentation device 1 according to the second application example is mounted. Fig. The controller 3 shown in Figure 15 includes a haptic presentation device 1A and a haptic presentation device 1B. The user holds the controller 3 and operates buttons, joysticks, and the like of the controller 3, thereby performing operations of a game presented by a game console connected to the controller 3.

[0084] The haptic presentation device 1A is mounted on the joystick of the controller 3. The haptic presentation device 1B is mounted on a handle of the controller 3. The user touches the haptic presentation device 1A and the haptic presentation device 1B when performing a game operation with the controller 3 or when viewing the game presented by the game console while holding the controller 3.

[0085] The haptic presentation device 1A and the haptic presentation device 1B present haptic sensations depending on a situation in the game by causing the fluid contained in the spaces to flow in and out through the supply and discharge units 130 of the haptic presentation device 1. For example, in a case where a control signal based on the action of a character to walk in the game is received, the supply and discharge units 130 may cause the fluid contained in the spaces to flow in and out, thereby presenting a vibration as a rough terrain. Moreover, in this case, the supply and discharge units 130 may cause the fluid contained in a space different from these spaces to flow in and out, further presenting a pressure sensation as a heartbeat sensation.In this way, the haptic presentation device 1 according to the second application example can provide the user with a sense of presence. (Third application example)

[0086] Next, a third application example is presented with reference to Fig. 16 to Fig. 19 described. Fig. 16 is a configuration view of the haptic presentation device 1 according to the third application example. In Fig. 16 above shows a view of the haptic presentation device 1 as viewed from the side in contact with the user. In addition, Fig. 16 below shows a view of the haptic presentation device 1 as viewed from the side, assuming that the side in contact with the user is an upper side.

[0087] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 16, the haptic presentation device 1 includes an upper-layer receiving space 11H, an upper-layer receiving space 11I, and a lower-layer receiving space 21A. The upper-layer receiving space 11H and the upper-layer receiving space 11I are provided on concentric circles. Furthermore, the upper-layer receiving space 11H and the upper-layer receiving space 11I are partitioned in the upper layer 10, and the lower-layer receiving space 21A is partitioned in the lower layer 20.

[0088] The sensor unit 140 according to this application example detects external pressures on the upper-layer accommodation space 11H and the upper-layer accommodation space 11I. When the sensor unit 140 detects a pressure value equal to or greater than a predetermined value, the communication unit 110 sends a signal to the external device. Accordingly, the user is able to operate the external device by pressing the presentation surface 14 of the upper-layer accommodation space 11H or the upper-layer accommodation space 11I. According to such a user operation, haptic feedback or a control signal for information notification to the user can be generated. In this application example, the generation unit 121 can generate a control signal according to a detection result by the sensor unit 140.

[0089] Fig. 17 is a view showing an example in which the Fig. 16 shown haptic presentation device 1 is mounted inside a vehicle. As in Fig. As shown in Figure 17, a haptic presentation device 1C is mounted on a handle H to be used for driving the car. Furthermore, a haptic presentation device 1D is mounted on a car dashboard D.

[0090] The user U performs operations related to the car, such as driving operations and in-vehicle air conditioning operations, by pressing the presentation surface 14 of the haptic presentation device 1C or the haptic presentation device 1D. The supply and discharge unit 130 performs the inflow and outflow of the fluid into and out of the receiving space to present a haptic sensation as feedback related to the operation by the user U. Here, the haptic presentation device 1 may be connected to a device capable of making a phone call, such as a smartphone. In this case, the supply and discharge units 130 can perform the inflow and outflow of the fluid into and out of the receiving spaces to present the user U or the like with a haptic sensation as notification of an incoming call.At this time, if the user U has pressed the presentation surface 14 and the sensor unit 140 has accordingly detected a pressure value equal to or greater than a predetermined value, the communication unit 110 can send a signal to the device so that the device starts calling.

[0091] Furthermore, the haptic presentation device 1 can be connected to the car navigation system. In this case, the supply and discharge units 130 can perform the inflow and outflow of the fluid into and from the receiving spaces to present the user U with a haptic sensation as a notification for guiding a direction.

[0092] Here, the configuration of the haptic presentation device 1 according to the third application example is not limited to the Fig. 16 example shown. Fig. 18 and Fig. 19 are further examples of the upper layer 10 of the haptic presentation device 1 according to the third application example. In the Fig. 18, the upper layer 10 is divided into receiving spaces 11J to 11L. In the Fig. 19, the upper layer 10 is divided into receiving spaces 11M to 11Q. In addition, Fig. 16 and Fig. 18 and Fig. 19 shows the examples in which the plurality of receiving spaces 11 of the upper layer are provided on the concentric circles, although it is not limited to these shapes. For example, the haptic presentation device 1 according to the third application example may have the upper layer 10 in the Fig. 2 shown form. <6. Hardware configuration example>

[0093] The respective embodiments of the present disclosure have been described above. The cooperation of software and hardware realizes the aforementioned information processing. A hardware configuration example that can be applied to the haptic presentation device 1 will be described below.

[0094] Fig. Fig. 20 is a block diagram showing an example of hardware configurations of the haptic presentation device 1. It should be noted that the hardware configuration example of the haptic presentation device 1 described below is merely an example of the hardware configurations of the haptic presentation device 1. Therefore, the haptic presentation device 1 does not necessarily have to implement all of the Fig. 20 hardware configurations shown. In addition, some of the Fig. 20 shown hardware configurations in the haptic presentation device 1 are omitted.

[0095] As in Fig. 20, the haptic presentation device 1 includes a CPU 901, a ROM 903, and a RAM 905. Furthermore, the haptic presentation device 1 may include a host bus 907, a bridge 909, an external bus 911, an interface 913, an input device 915, an output device 917, a storage device 919, a drive 921, a connection port 923, and a communication device 925. Instead of or in addition to the CPU 901, the haptic presentation device 1 may include processing circuitry referred to as a graphics processing unit (GPU), digital signal processor (DSP), or application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC).

[0096] The CPU 901 functions as an arithmetic processing device and a control device, and controls general operations in the haptic presentation device 1 or some of them according to various programs recorded on the ROM 903, the RAM 905, the storage device 919, or a removable recording medium 927. The ROM 903 stores programs, arithmetic operation parameters, and the like to be used by the CPU 901. The RAM 905 temporarily stores programs to be used for the execution of the CPU 901 and / or parameters and the like that may be changed during execution. The CPU 901, the ROM 903, and the RAM 905 are connected to each other by the host bus 907, which is formed by an internal bus such as a CPU bus.Additionally, the host bus 907 is connected to the external bus 911, such as a Peripheral Component Interconnect / Interface (PCI) bus, via the bridge 909.

[0097] The CPU 901, which works together with the ROM 903, the RAM 905 and the software, can, for example, realize the functions of the control unit 120.

[0098] The input device 915 is a device that is operated, for example, by buttons and the like. The input device 915 may include a mouse, a keyboard, a touch panel, a switch, a lever, and the like. Furthermore, the input device 915 may include a microphone that captures the user's voice. The input device 915 may be a remote control device that uses, for example, infrared rays or other radio waves, or may be an external connection device 929, such as a portable telephone, that is compatible with operations of the haptic presentation device 1. The input device 915 includes an input control circuit that generates an input signal based on information input by the user and outputs the input signal to the CPU 901.The user inputs various types of data into the haptic presentation device 1 or instructs the haptic presentation device 1 to process operations by operating this input device 915.

[0099] Furthermore, the input device 915 may include an image pickup device and sensors. The image pickup device is a device that captures an image of a real space and generates the captured image by using, for example, an image pickup element such as a charge-coupled device (CCD) or a complementary metal-oxide semiconductor (CMOS) and various elements such as lenses for controlling the formation of an image of an object on the image pickup element. The image pickup device may be one that captures a still image or may be one that captures a moving image.

[0100] The sensor includes various sensors, such as a distance sensor, an acceleration sensor, a gyro sensor, a geomagnetic sensor, a vibration sensor, an optical sensor, and a sound sensor. The sensor detects information about states of the haptic presentation device 1, such as a position and the like of a housing of the haptic presentation device 1, or detects information about the environment of the haptic presentation device 1, such as brightness or noise around the haptic presentation device 1. Furthermore, the sensor may include a GPS sensor that receives a global positioning system (GPS) signal and measures the latitude, longitude, and altitude of the device.

[0101] The output device 917 is formed by a device capable of visually or audibly notifying the user of the acquired information. The output device 917 may be, for example, a display device such as a liquid crystal display (LCD) or an organic electroluminescence (EL) display, a sound output device such as a speaker or headphones, and the like. Furthermore, the output device 917 may include a plasma display panel (PDP), a projector, a hologram, a printer device, and the like. The output device 917 outputs a result obtained by the processing of the haptic presentation device 1 as a text or video, e.g., an image, or outputs a sound, such as a voice or audio effect. Furthermore, the output device 917 may include an illumination device or the like that illuminates the periphery.

[0102] The storage device 919 is a device for storing data configured as an example of the storage unit of the haptic presentation device 1. The storage device 919 is constituted by a magnetic storage device, such as a hard disk drive (HDD), a semiconductor storage device, an optical storage device, or an optical magnetic storage device. The storage device 919 stores programs or various types of data to be executed by the CPU 901, various types of externally acquired data, and the like.

[0103] The drive 921 is a reader / writer for the removable recording medium 927, such as a magnetic disk, an optical disk, a magneto-optical disk, or a semiconductor memory, and is built into the haptic presentation device 1 or mounted externally. The drive 921 reads information recorded on the mounted removable recording medium 927 and outputs it to the RAM 905. Furthermore, the drive 921 writes a record to the mounted removable recording medium 927.

[0104] The connection port 923 is a port for directly connecting the device to the haptic presentation device 1. The connection port 923 may be, for example, a Universal Serial Bus (USB) port, an IEEE 1394 port, a Small Computer System Interface (SCSI) port, or the like. In addition, the connection port 923 may be an RS-232C port, an optical audio port, an HDMI (registered trademark) (High-Definition Multimedia Interface) port, or the like. The external connection device 929 is connected to the connection port 923 so that various types of data can be exchanged between the haptic presentation device 1 and the external connection device 929.

[0105] The communication device 925 is, for example, a local area network or a communication interface formed by a communication device and the like for connecting to a communication network with a base station for wireless communication. The communication device 925 may be, for example, a wired or wireless LAN, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, or a wireless USB (WUSB) communication card, and the like. Furthermore, the communication device 925 may be a router for optical communication, an asymmetric digital subscriber line (ADSL) router, a modem for various types of communication, or the like. The communication device 925 sends and receives signals and the like, for example, to / from the Internet or another communication device using a predetermined protocol such as TCP / IP.In addition, a local area network connected to the communication device 925 or a communication network having a base station is a network connected by wires or wirelessly, and is, for example, the Internet, a home LAN, infrared communication, radio wave communication, satellite communication, or the like. <7th Addition>

[0106] Although the advantageous embodiments of the present disclosure have been described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings, the technical scope of the present disclosure is not limited to such examples. It is clear that a person skilled in the art in the technical field of the present disclosure can consider various examples of changes or modifications within the scope of the technical concepts defined in the scope of the claims, which are naturally understood to be within the technical scope of the present disclosure.

[0107] For example, the shapes of the upper layer receiving spaces 11 and the lower layer receiving space 21 are not limited to the above-mentioned shapes and may be the shapes shown in, for example, Fig. 21 to Fig. 23 are shown. Fig. 21 to Fig. 23 are further examples of the upper layer 10 of the haptic presentation device 1. In the Fig. 21, a receiving space 11R of the upper layer is separated. In the Fig. 22, the upper layer 10 is divided into receiving spaces 11S to 11V. In the Fig. 23, upper layer receiving spaces 11W to 11Z and upper layer receiving spaces 11AA to 11AC are partitioned. Note that a lower layer receiving space 21 may be partitioned in the lower layer 20 in a shape similar to that of the upper layer receiving spaces 11 partitioned in the upper layer 10 shown so far.

[0108] Furthermore, the example in which the haptic presentation device 1 comprises the two layers, the upper layer 10 and the lower layer 20, has been described so far. However, the haptic presentation device 1 may comprise a plurality of lower layers 20 such that one lower layer 20 is stacked on another lower layer 20. In a case where the haptic presentation device 1 comprises a plurality of lower layers 20, the wall portions partitioning the lower-layer accommodation space 21 partitioned in the lower layer 20 closer to the upper layer 10 are deformed by causing a fluid contained in another lower-layer accommodation space 21 to flow in and out. Accordingly, the wall portion located between the upper-layer accommodation spaces 11 and the lower-layer accommodation space 21 is deformed, and the presentation surfaces 14 are deformed.Since the haptic presentation device 1 includes the plurality of lower layers 20, a more complicated haptic sensation can be presented to the user.

[0109] Furthermore, the example in which each of the plurality of accommodation spaces is partitioned in the upper layer 10 or the lower layer 20 has been described so far. However, there may be one accommodation space partitioned across the upper layer 10 and the lower layer 20.

[0110] Furthermore, the example in which the supply and discharge units 130 present a haptic sensation to the user, causing the fluid to flow into and out of the receiving space, has been described so far. However, the haptic presentation device 1 may comprise another device, such as a Peltier device, to simultaneously present the user with sensations other than a haptic sensation, such as a warming sensation or an olfactory sensation.

[0111] Furthermore, the effects described in the present specification are merely illustrative or exemplary and not limiting. That is, the technology according to the embodiment of the present disclosure may provide other effects that are apparent to those skilled in the art in light of the description of the present specification, in addition to or instead of the above-mentioned effects.

[0112] It should be noted that the following configurations fall within the technical scope of the present disclosure. (1) Device comprising: a first receiving space and a second receiving space containing a fluid, which are partitioned using an elastically deformable wall portion; a generating unit that generates a plurality of signals based on a haptic feedback or a control signal for information notification to a user using the device; and a supply and discharge unit which, on the basis of the signal generated by the generating unit, supplies the fluid to the first receiving space and the second receiving space and discharges the fluid from the first receiving space and the second receiving space, wherein the first receiving space is stacked on the second receiving space so that the first receiving space is located between the second receiving space and the user in a state in which the device is used by the user. (2) Device according to (1), wherein the device comprises the one first receiving space or a plurality of first receiving spaces and the one second receiving space or a plurality of second receiving spaces, and the one second receiving space or the plurality of second receiving spaces is divided into a layer stacked on a layer in which the one first receiving space or the plurality of first receiving spaces is divided. (3) Device according to (2), further comprising a control unit that determines, for each of the plurality of signals generated by the generating unit, a receiving space to and from which the fluid is supplied and discharged on the basis of the signal. (4) Device according to any one of (1) to (3), wherein a signal for the feed and discharge unit for controlling the first receiving space and a signal for the feed and discharge unit for controlling the second receiving space are signals of different frequencies, the signals being generated by the generating unit. (5) Device according to (4), wherein the generating unit generates, as the plurality of signals, a first signal including a frequency component of a frequency equal to or higher than a predetermined frequency in the control signal and a second signal including a frequency component of a frequency lower than a frequency of the first signal in the control signal. (6) Device according to any one of (1) to (5), wherein the generating unit generates the plurality of signals by separating a control signal depending on whether the strength of the control signal is positive or negative. (7) Device according to (3), wherein the control unit determines, on the basis of an amplitude value of a signal generated by the generating unit, a receiving space to and from which the fluid is supplied and discharged on the basis of the signal. (8) Device according to (3), wherein the plurality of signals generated by the generating unit are equal in frequency and phase. (9) Device according to (8), wherein the control unit determines the first accommodating space and the second accommodating space stacked on the first accommodating space as accommodating spaces to and from which the fluid is supplied and discharged based on each of the plurality of signals that are the same in frequency and phase. (10) Device according to (3), wherein the generating unit determines an amplitude value of each of the plurality of signals based on the control signal, and the control unit determines each of a plurality of mutually adjacent first receiving spaces among the plurality of first receiving spaces as the receiving space to and from which the fluid is supplied and discharged based on each of the plurality of signals. (11) Device according to one of (1) to (10), wherein the generating unit determines an amplitude value of a signal to be generated based on a threshold value. (12) Device according to (3), further comprising a sensor unit that measures a distance between receiving spaces or a pressure exerted on a receiving space, wherein the control unit controls the supply and discharge of the fluid through the supply and discharge unit based on a measurement result from the sensor unit. (13) Device according to (2) or (3), wherein the second recording chamber is stacked over the plurality of first recording chambers. (14) Device according to one of (1) to (13), wherein the device has a plurality of at least one of the first receiving spaces and the second receiving spaces, and the plurality of first recording spaces or the plurality of second recording spaces are present on concentric circles. (15) The device according to any one of (1) to (14), further comprising a plurality of layers in which the second receiving space is divided. List of reference symbols 1 haptic presentation device 10 upper layer 11 Upper layer recording room 12 Outlet and inlet opening 13 layer insulation area 14 presentation areas 20 lower layer 21 Lower layer recording room 110 Communication unit 120 control unit 121 generation unit 130 Feed and discharge unit 140 Sensor unit 150 storage units QUOTES CONTAINED IN THE DESCRIPTION

[0000] This list of documents submitted by the applicant was generated automatically and is included solely for the convenience of the reader. This list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA assumes no liability for any errors or omissions. Cited patent literature

[0000] WO 2021 / 090712

[0003]

Claims

[1] Device comprising: a first receiving space and a second receiving space containing a fluid, which are partitioned using an elastically deformable wall portion; a generating unit that generates a plurality of signals based on a haptic feedback or a control signal for information notification to a user using the device; and a supply and discharge unit which, on the basis of the signal generated by the generating unit, supplies the fluid to the first receiving space and the second receiving space and discharges the fluid from the first receiving space and the second receiving space, wherein the first receiving space is stacked on the second receiving space so that the first receiving space is located between the second receiving space and the user in a state in which the device is used by the user. [2] Device according to claim 1, wherein the device comprises the one first receiving space or a plurality of first receiving spaces and the one second receiving space or a plurality of second receiving spaces, and the one second receiving space or the plurality of second receiving spaces is divided into a layer stacked on a layer in which the one first receiving space or the plurality of first receiving spaces is divided. [3] The device of claim 2, further comprising: a control unit that determines, for each of the plurality of signals generated by the generating unit, a receiving space to and from which the fluid is supplied and discharged on the basis of the signal. [4] The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein a signal for the supply and discharge unit for controlling the first receiving space and a signal for the supply and discharge unit for controlling the second receiving space are signals of different frequencies, the signals being generated by the generating unit. [5] The apparatus according to claim 4, wherein the generating unit generates, as the plurality of signals, a first signal including a frequency component of a frequency equal to or higher than a predetermined frequency in the control signal and a second signal including a frequency component of a frequency lower than a frequency of the first signal in the control signal. [6] The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the generating unit generates the plurality of signals by separating a control signal depending on whether the strength of the control signal is positive or negative. [7] The device according to claim 3, wherein the control unit determines, on the basis of an amplitude value of a signal generated by the generating unit, a receiving space to and from which the fluid is supplied and discharged on the basis of the signal. [8] The apparatus of claim 3, wherein the plurality of signals generated by the generating unit are equal in frequency and phase. [9] The apparatus according to claim 8, wherein the control unit determines the first accommodation space and the second accommodation space stacked on the first accommodation space as accommodation spaces to and from which the fluid is supplied and discharged based on each of the plurality of signals that are the same in frequency and phase. [10] Device according to claim 3, wherein the generating unit determines an amplitude value of each of the plurality of signals based on the control signal, and the control unit determines each of a plurality of mutually adjacent first receiving spaces among the plurality of first receiving spaces as the receiving space to and from which the fluid is supplied and discharged based on each of the plurality of signals. [11] The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the generating unit determines an amplitude value of a signal to be generated based on a threshold value. [12] The device of claim 3, further comprising: a sensor unit that measures a distance between receiving spaces or a pressure exerted on a receiving space, wherein the control unit controls the supply and discharge of the fluid through the supply and discharge unit based on a measurement result from the sensor unit. [13] The apparatus of claim 2, wherein the second receiving space is stacked over the plurality of first receiving spaces. [14] Device according to claim 1, wherein the device has a plurality of at least one of the first receiving spaces and the second receiving spaces, and the plurality of first recording spaces or the plurality of second recording spaces are present on concentric circles. [15] The device of claim 1, further comprising: a multitude of layers in which the second recording space is divided.

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