Haptic components

Abstract

A tactile component (1) comprises a piezoelectric actuator (2), and at least one reinforcing member (3, 4) having a horizontal edge region (5) attached to the piezoelectric actuator (2) and a central region (6) that is movable perpendicular to the main surface of the piezoelectric actuator (2). The reinforcing member (3, 4) in the central region (6) includes a stop structure (7) for contacting the piezoelectric actuator (2) and at least one non-stop structure (12) configured not to contact the piezoelectric actuator (2), wherein the stop structure (7) comprises at least two stop regions (7a, 7b, 7c, 7d) and the non-stop structure (12) comprises at least one non-stop region (8a, 8b, 8c, 8d), the non-stop region being located between the two stop regions.

Description

Technical Field

[0005] ,

[0001] The present invention relates to a tactile component for generating a tactile signal. Such a device comprises an actuator for moving a movable element. The movable element is configured, for example, as a contact-sensitive surface or the tip of a pen-shaped device. The actuator is, for example, a piezoelectric actuator, particularly a piezoelectric ceramic actuator.

[0002] The tactile component can be configured to generate tactile feedback when touched. The tactile component is applicable, for example, to a touch screen, a trackpad, a push button, or a stylus (pen-shaped device). In particular, the tactile component can be used in the automotive field.

Background Art

[0003] In WO2017 / 060011A1, WO2018 / 046201A1 and WO2022 / 248244A1, a reinforcing member for amplifying the stroke is attached to a piezoelectric actuator, and a device for generating tactile feedback is disclosed. In each device, the reinforcing member has the form of a thin metal plate. According to WO2022 / 248244A1, when an excessive force is applied, an excessive deformation of the reinforcing member is prevented by a mechanical stop. The mechanical stop is formed by deep-drawing the central region of the reinforcing member or by attaching an additional member inside the reinforcing member.

Summary of the Invention

[0004] The object of the present invention is to provide a tactile component with improved characteristics.

[0005] According to the first aspect, the tactile component comprises a piezoelectric actuator and at least one reinforcing member having a horizontal edge region attached to the piezoelectric actuator and a central region movable perpendicular to the main surface of the piezoelectric actuator. The central region has a stop structure formed for contact with the piezoelectric actuator. The central region further comprises a non-stop structure configured not to contact the piezoelectric actuator. The stop structure comprises at least two stop regions, between which the non-stop region of the non-stop structure is positioned. In particular, this arrangement of the stop and non-stop regions is observable in a cross-section of the tactile component perpendicular to the main surface of the piezoelectric actuator.

[0006] By configuring the stop in this way, the stability of the reinforcing member can be improved compared to stops designed only in the form of a uniform circular surface (with internal holes for pressure balancing as needed). Furthermore, this stop structure can make the force acting on the piezoelectric actuator more uniform when it contacts the piezoelectric actuator, preventing the force from being concentrated in a narrow area.

[0007] It was found that when excessive force is applied, the reinforcing member can deform so that the force acts mainly on the piezoelectric actuator in the edge region of the stop. Furthermore, excessive deformation can cause damage to the reinforcing member. By constructing the reinforcing member, the total surface area of ​​the stop region adjacent to the edge region, i.e., the non-stop region, can be increased. This prevents damage to the piezoelectric actuator and the reinforcing member even when a larger force is applied.

[0008] The piezoelectric actuator may be positioned between the reinforcing member and yet another reinforcing member. These reinforcing members may be configured in similar ways to one another, and in particular, may have similar stop structures.

[0009] The piezoelectric actuator may be configured as, for example, a piezoelectric ceramic actuator. A stop structure can prevent damage to the piezoelectric ceramic in the event of excessive force. For example, the piezoelectric actuator has a square basic shape. The basic shape corresponds to the main surface of the piezoelectric actuator. Alternatively, the piezoelectric actuator may have a basic shape that is, for example, an elongated rectangle.

[0010] The reinforcing member may have, for example, a circular basic shape. Alternatively, the reinforcing member may have a rectangular basic shape. The reinforcing member may be made from a thin metal sheet. The thin metal sheet may have, for example, a washbasin-like or truncated cone-like shape.

[0011] The stop structure may be formed integrally with the non-stop structure. In particular, the stop structure is formed integrally with other areas of the reinforcing member, for example, with the edge area. When the reinforcing member is formed from a thin metal sheet, the stop structure may be formed as a reshaped portion of the thin metal sheet. For example, the stop structure may be formed from a thin metal sheet by deep drawing. In this case, the non-stop structure is not deep drawn.

[0012] The stop structure may have multiple separate partial stops, which are separated from each other by non-stop structures.

[0013] For example, a stop structure has one or more ring or arc segments. A non-stop structure also has one or more ring or arc segments. For example, a stop structure comprises multiple concentrically arranged rings. The rings may be arranged concentrically around the center point of the reinforcing member. One or more non-stop regions may be in the form of rings or ribs between the arc segments. Stop regions may also be in the form of ribs. For example, a rib extends from a center point toward an edge region. The ring or arc segments may be completely separate or connected by bridges.

[0014] For example, a stop structure may have multiple arc segments, while a non-stop structure may consist of ribs between the arc segments. Alternatively, a non-stop structure may have multiple arc segments, while a stop structure may consist of ribs between the arc segments. In principle, any shape of a stop structure is applicable to a non-stop structure, and vice versa.

[0015] For example, stop structures and / or non-stop structures are cross-shaped.

[0016] The stop structure may be positioned within a circular region such that the outer edge region of the stop structure extends in the form of a ring or a divided ring.

[0017] The stop regions of the stop structure may be arranged alternately with non-stop regions when viewed from the center point of the reinforcing member toward the edge region.

[0018] The stop and non-stop structures may be formed only in the central region of the reinforcing member. That is, these structures can be designed not to extend into the edge region. Alternatively, the stop and non-stop structures may be formed only in the inner region of the central region. For example, this structure extends only over a maximum of half the maximum length of the central region. For example, the central region is circular, and the stop region is located within a circle with a radius half the radius of the central region.

[0019] Alternatively, or in addition, the stop and non-stop regions may be arranged alternately along the circumference around the center point of the reinforcing member.

[0020] In other aspects, a method for manufacturing a tactile component is provided. In particular, the tactile component may be the tactile component described above. In this method, a thin metal sheet is supplied to form a reinforcing member. The thin metal sheet is plastically deformed, and a stop structure is formed in the process. For example, the thin metal sheet is formed by deep drawing. The thin metal sheet is then attached to a piezoelectric actuator at its edge region.

[0021] The present invention has multiple aspects and particularly includes devices and methods. Features, characteristics, and embodiments described in one of the aspects are correspondingly applicable to other aspects.

[0022] Furthermore, the description of the subject matter disclosed herein is not limited to specific embodiments. Rather, the features of individual embodiments may be combined with each other within the technically possible scope.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0023] [Figure 1A] It is a perspective view of one embodiment of a tactile component. [Figure 1B] It is a cross-sectional view of the embodiment of FIG. 1A. [Figure 2A] It is a perspective view of another embodiment of a tactile component. [Figure 2B] It is a cross-sectional view of the embodiment of FIG. 2A. [Figure 3] Embodiments of the tactile component of FIGS. 2A and 2B having electrical connections are shown. [Figure 4] It is a perspective view of another embodiment of a reinforcing member of a tactile component.

Best Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0024] Hereinafter, the subject matter described herein will be further described in more detail using exemplary schematic embodiments.

[0025] In the following drawings, the same reference numerals refer to elements that are functionally or structurally corresponding in each embodiment.

[0026] FIGS. 1A and 1B are a perspective view and a cross-sectional view of one embodiment of a tactile component 1. The tactile component 1 may be used in an input device and / or an output device such as a touch pad or a control button, for example.

[0027] The tactile component 1 comprises a piezoelectric actuator 2. The piezoelectric actuator 2 may be a piezoelectric ceramic element. In particular, the piezoelectric actuator 2 may be a ceramic multilayer component. The piezoelectric actuator 2 has an electrical connection region 10 for electrical connection. The electrical connection region 10 is connected, for example, to electrode layers having different polarities. The polarity is indicated by markings, for example, illustrated dot marks provided on one of the electrical connection regions 10. Here, the piezoelectric actuator 2 has a square basic shape. However, other basic shapes are also possible, for example, an elongated rectangular basic shape.

[0028] The tactile component 1 includes a reinforcing member 3. In particular, the piezoelectric actuator 2 is positioned between the reinforcing member 3 and another reinforcing member 4. The reinforcing members 3 and 4 are each attached to the piezoelectric actuator 2 at their horizontal edge regions 5. For example, the reinforcing members 3 and 4 are bonded to the piezoelectric actuator 2 in that portion. The reinforcing member 3 can be connected to the touch surface for input or output of tactile signals. The other reinforcing member 4 can be positioned at the contact portion.

[0029] The reinforcing member 3 has a circular planar basic shape. However, other basic shapes are also possible, such as a square basic shape. In particular, the basic shape of the reinforcing member 3 may correspond to the basic shape of the piezoelectric actuator 2.

[0030] The piezoelectric actuator 2 is designed to deform when a voltage is applied, and in particular, deforms within the plane of its main surface. By being attached to the piezoelectric actuator 2, the reinforcing members 3 and 4 deform so that their central region 6 moves perpendicularly to the surface of the piezoelectric actuator 2. In particular, vibrations can be generated, thereby producing vibrational tactile feedback.

[0031] Alternatively, or as an addition, the tactile component 1 may be configured such that the piezoelectric actuator 2 generates an electrical signal when a force is applied to the reinforcing members 3 and 4. Tactile feedback is then generated again. In particular, when an external compressive force is applied to the central region 6 of the reinforcing members 3 and 4, an electrical signal is generated in the electrical connection region 10. This allows for the detection of external tactile action, and the tactile component 1 functions as a sensor.

[0032] The reinforcing members 3 and 4 are in the form of thin metal sheets, and in particular, thin metal sheets. For example, the metal sheets are made of titanium. The metal sheets are formed so that, in a stationary state, the central region 6 protrudes from the surface of the piezoelectric actuator 2. In particular, the reinforcing members 3 and 4 have a cymbal shape or a frustoconical shape.

[0033] If excessive external force acts on the reinforcing members 3 and 4, the reinforcing members 3 and 4 and / or the piezoelectric actuator 2 may be damaged, potentially causing the tactile component 1 to malfunction.

[0034] By forming the stop structure 7, excessive deformation of the reinforcing members 3 and 4 is limited, and the mechanical load is distributed over a sufficiently large surface area of ​​the piezoelectric actuator 2. The stop structure 7 will be described below with reference to the reinforcing member 3. The other reinforcing member 4 may be configured similarly.

[0035] In the illustrated embodiment, the stop structure 7 is an integral part of the reinforcing member 3, and is particularly integrally formed with the non-stop structure 12 and the edge region 5. This makes it particularly easy to manufacture the stop structure 7. For example, the stop structure 7 is formed by plastically deforming the reinforcing member 3 by deep drawing or the like.

[0036] The stop structure 7 is configured to distribute the force more evenly to the piezoelectric actuator 2. In particular, the stop structure 7 is not merely in the form of a single circular recess where only a circular edge region is formed in the outer non-stop region 16. Rather, multiple non-stop regions 8a, 8b, 8c, and 8d are formed between the stop regions 7a, 7b, 7c, and 7d.

[0037] In this way, the edges 14a, 14b, 14c, and 14d are located at different distances from the center point 9 of the reinforcing member 3. Edge 14a is part of the outer edge of the stop structure 7. The shape of the outer edge is circular.

[0038] Holes 13 are provided around the center point 9 to allow for pressure equilibrium. Non-stop regions 8b and 8c are formed directly adjacent to the holes 13. Holes 13 are not non-stop regions because they do not contain material.

[0039] A simple, flat stop integrated with the reinforcing region was found to cause deformation of the reinforcing member 3 when a large force is applied, resulting in excessive force being applied to the edge of the stop. As a result, the force is concentrated on one edge of the stop and not evenly distributed throughout the piezoelectric actuator 2. This can cause damage to the piezoelectric actuator 2, particularly its failure, as well as permanent deformation of the reinforcing member 3. By forming multiple edges 14a, 14b, 14c, and 14d at different distances from the center point 9, the number of contact points is increased, thereby distributing the force more evenly.

[0040] In the illustrated stop structure 7, when viewed from the center point 9 of the reinforcing member 3 toward the edge region 5, the multiple stop regions 7a, 7b, 7c, and 7d are arranged alternately with the non-stop regions 8a, 8b, 8c, and 8d.

[0041] In the embodiment shown herein, the stop regions 7a to 7d form a plurality of separate partial stops 11a and 11b in the form of concentric rings. These rings are separated from each other by a non-stop structure 12 comprising a plurality of concentric rings.

[0042] The stop structure 7 is rotationally symmetric with respect to an axis perpendicular to the main surface of the piezoelectric actuator 2 and passing through the center point 9.

[0043] In particular, such embodiments are suitable for forces greater than 300N, for example, but less than or equal to 400N, and do not damage the reinforcing members 3 and 4 or the piezoelectric actuator 2. By being uniformly distributed across the entire surface of the piezoelectric actuator 2, the maximum compressive force acting on the piezoelectric actuator 2 can be limited to, for example, 20N.

[0044] Figures 2A and 2B are perspective and cross-sectional views of other embodiments of the tactile component 1. The illustrated tactile component 1 differs from the tactile component 1 shown in Figures 1A and 1B in the shape of the stop structure 7.

[0045] The stop structure 7 comprises multiple separate partial stops 11a, 11b, 11c, and 11d, each having a circular arc segment shape. The non-stop structure 12, which includes multiple ribs, is formed between the partial stops 11a to 11d. The non-stop structure 12 is configured in a cross shape as a whole.

[0046] Therefore, as is clear from the cross-sectional view in Figure 2B, the edges 14a and 14b of the stop regions 7a and 7b, and the non-stop regions 8a, 8b, and 16 are located at different distances from the center point 9. Overall, the area of ​​the edges 14a and 14b is larger than when the stop has a uniform circular structure. In other words, the force can be uniformly distributed by the piezoelectric actuator 2.

[0047] In the reinforcement structure shown here, the stop regions 7a, 7b, 7c, and 7d are arranged alternately with the non-stop regions 8a, 8b, 8c, and 8d along the circumference around the center point 9 of the reinforcing member 3.

[0048] The cross-shaped non-stop structure 12 shown here significantly improves the stability of the reinforcing member 3 and also provides particularly good distribution of the applied force. Furthermore, it is shown here that no damage occurs even when a force of 400N is applied.

[0049] The stop structure 7 shown here is not rotationally symmetric. The stop structure 7 is axially symmetric with respect to a plane perpendicular to the main surface of the piezoelectric actuator 2.

[0050] In this embodiment, the stop structure 7 includes four arc-segment shaped partial stops 11a to 11d. The number of arc-segment shaped partial stop regions 11a to 11d may be greater or less than this number; for example, three or five partial stops may be provided.

[0051] The other reinforcing members 4 may be positioned in the same orientation as reinforcing member 3, or they may be positioned rotated relative to reinforcing member 3 around an axis perpendicular to the main surface of the piezoelectric actuator 2. For example, the other reinforcing members 4 may be positioned rotated by 45 degrees. This further improves the stability of reinforcing members 3 and 4, as well as the uniformity of the forces acting upon them.

[0052] When forming the stop structure 7, it is advantageous to obtain a sufficient surface area on the side away from the piezoelectric actuator 2, as this makes it easier to attach it to the back surface of a touch surface such as a control button or touchpad. The non-stop structure 12 located between the partial stops 11a to 11d also enables attachment and installation in the area of ​​the center point 9 of the reinforcing member 3.

[0053] For example, the non-stop structure 12 may be attached to the movable element on the contact surface by adhesive or adhesive tape. In the embodiments shown in Figures 1A and 1B, the circular non-stop structure 12 also functions as a fastening or mounting part for system integration.

[0054] The stop structure 7 and the non-stop structure 12 are formed only in the central region 6. In particular, the stop structure 7 and the non-stop structure 12 are formed only in the inner region of the central region 6. For example, the stop structure 7 and the non-stop structure 12 are located within a circle having a radius of less than half the radius of the central region 6.

[0055] Figure 3 shows the tactile component 1 of Figures 2A and 2B, which has an electrical connection part 15. The electrical connection part 15 is electrically connected to the electrical connection area 10. For example, the electrical connection part 15 is connected to the electrical connection area 10 by a conductive adhesive.

[0056] By arranging electrical connection areas 10 with opposite polarities on only one side of the piezoelectric actuator 2, electrical connections can be easily made using various methods such as flexible contacts or cables.

[0057] Figure 4 is a perspective view showing yet another embodiment of the reinforcing members 3 and 4 of the tactile component 1. The tactile component 1 may be configured as in the other embodiments.

[0058] The reinforcing member 3 includes a circular, integrated stop structure 7. The stop structure 7 surrounds a non-stop structure 12, which is similarly circular. The non-stop structure 12 surrounds a hole 13 in the reinforcing member 3. The non-stop structure 12 can be used for attachment to a user interface, as in other embodiments.

[0059] Here too, the stop structure 7 is provided with multiple edges 14a and 14b, which makes it possible to distribute the force acting on the piezoelectric actuator 2 more uniformly compared to the case where there is only one edge.

[0060] In all illustrated embodiments, the stop structure 7 is configured as an integral part of the reinforcing member 3. In particular, the stop structure 7 is formed by deforming the reinforcing member 3. Alternatively, the stop structure 7 may be formed by attaching a separate member, such as a plastic film or foam. For example, Kapton film may be used.

[0061] Furthermore, in order to make the force application even more uniform, the tactile component 1 may include a separate member in addition to the integrated stop structure 7. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0062] 1. Haptic component 2 Actuators 3. Reinforcement members 4 Other reinforcing members 5. Border region 6 Central area 7-stop structure 7a~7d Stop area 8a~8d Non-stop region 9 center point 10 Electrical connection area 11A, 11b, 11c, 11d Partial stop 12 Non-stop structure 13 holes 14a, 14b, 14c, 14d edges 15. Electrical connection 16. Outer non-stop region

Claims

1. A tactile component (1), Piezoelectric actuator (2) and The piezoelectric actuator (2) is fitted with at least one reinforcing member (3, 4) having a horizontal edge region (5) and a central region (6) that is movable perpendicular to the main surface of the piezoelectric actuator (2), The reinforcing members (3, 4) in the central region (6) include a stop structure (7) for contacting the piezoelectric actuator (2) and at least one non-stop structure (12) configured not to contact the piezoelectric actuator (2). The stop structure (7) comprises at least two stop regions (7a, 7b, 7c, 7d), The non-stop structure (12) comprises at least one non-stop region (8a, 8b, 8c, 8d), The non-stop region is located between the two stop regions. Haptic component (1).

2. The tactile component according to claim 1, wherein the stop structure (7) is integrally formed with the non-stop structure (12).

3. The tactile component according to any one of the above claims, wherein the stop structure (7) comprises a plurality of partial stops (11a, 11b, 11c, 11d) separated from each other by the non-stop structure (12).

4. The tactile component according to any one of the claims, wherein the stop structure (7) comprises a plurality of partial stops (11a, 11b, 11c, 11d) in the form of annular or arc segment.

5. The tactile component according to claim 4, wherein the partial stops (11a, 11b, 11c, 11d) are in the form of concentric rings.

6. The tactile component according to any one of the claims, wherein the stop structure (7) is arranged within a circular region such that the edges (14a, 14b) of the stop structure (7) extend in the form of a ring or a segmented ring.

7. The tactile component according to any one of the above claims, wherein the stop structure (7) comprises a plurality of stop regions (7a, 7b, 7c, 7d) that are alternately arranged with non-stop regions (8a, 8b, 8c, 8d) when viewed from the center point (9) of the reinforcing member (3) in the direction of the edge region (5).

8. The tactile component according to any one of the above claims, wherein the stop regions (7a, 7b, 7c, 7d) and non-stop regions (8a, 8b, 8c, 8d) are alternately arranged along the circumference around the center point (9) of the reinforcing members (3, 4).

9. The tactile component according to any one of the above claims, wherein the stop regions (7a, 7b, 7c, 7d) and / or the non-stop regions (8a, 8b, 8c, 8d) are configured in the form of a plurality of ribs.

10. The tactile component according to claim 9, wherein the ribs extend from the center point (13) of the reinforcing members (3, 4) toward the edge region (5).

11. The stop structure (7) comprises a plurality of arc segments, and the non-stop structure (12) is configured in the form of ribs between the arc segments, or The tactile component according to any one of the above claims, wherein the non-stop structure (12) comprises a plurality of arc segments, and the stop structure (7) is configured in the form of ribs between the arc segments.

12. The tactile component according to any one of the above claims, wherein the stop structure (7) and / or the non-stop structure (12) are cross-shaped.

13. The tactile component according to any one of the above claims, wherein the piezoelectric actuator (2) has a square basic shape, and the reinforcing members (3, 4) have a circular basic shape.

14. The tactile component according to any one of the above claims, wherein the reinforcing members (3, 4) are provided with holes (13), and the non-stop structure (12) is directly adjacent to the holes (13).

15. The tactile component according to any one of the above claims, wherein the stop structure (7) is formed only in the central region of the reinforcing members (3, 4).

16. A method for manufacturing a tactile component (1) according to any one of the above claims, A) A step of supplying thin metal sheets for forming the reinforcing members (3, 4), B) A step of plastically deforming the metal sheet in order to form the stop structure (7), C) The step of attaching the thin metal plate to the piezoelectric actuator (2) at its edge region (5), A manufacturing method that includes this.

17. The manufacturing method according to claim 16, wherein the plastic deformation includes deep drawing of the thin metal sheet.

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