Device for providing tactile stimulation

Abstract

A device for providing tactile stimulation according to an embodiment of the present invention is a belt-type tactile stimulation device comprising: a first panel including a main board and a first actuator; a second panel which is connected to the first panel via a first band having elasticity and includes a second actuator; a third panel which is connected to the second panel via a second band having elasticity and includes a third actuator; and a fourth panel which is connected to the third panel via a third band having elasticity and includes a sub-board and a fourth actuator, wherein a first wire connected to the first actuator and a second wire connected to the second actuator are connected to the main board, a third wire connected to the third actuator and a fourth wire connected to the fourth actuator are connected to the sub-board, and the sub-board is connected to the main board via a fifth wire.

Description

Tactile stimulation device

[0001] The present invention relates to a tactile stimulation providing device.

[0002] A tactile stimulation providing device includes actuators and can provide tactile stimulation to a user by selectively vibrating the actuators. The tactile stimulation providing device can be provided to various body parts of the target user.

[0003] Tactile stimulation devices can be manufactured in various ways to accommodate various body parts of the user. Since belt-type tactile stimulation devices provide sensation relative to the vertical axis of the user's torso, it is crucial to provide directionality in the transverse plane. In particular, it is necessary to maintain a consistent distance between actuators regardless of the user's torso shape and size while providing consistent feedback quality to the user.

[0004] The technical challenge to be solved is to provide a tactile stimulation providing device that can fit closely to various users' torso shapes and sizes, maintain a regular spacing between actuators, and prevent noise caused by collision of internal components.

[0005] A tactile stimulus providing device according to one embodiment of the present invention is a belt-shaped tactile stimulus providing device, comprising: a first panel including a main board and a first actuator; a second panel connected to the first panel through an elastic first band and including a second actuator; a third panel connected to the second panel through an elastic second band and including a third actuator; and a fourth panel connected to the third panel through an elastic third band and including a sub board and a fourth actuator, wherein a first wire connected to the first actuator and a second wire connected to the second actuator are connected to the main board, a third wire connected to the third actuator and a fourth wire connected to the fourth actuator are connected to the sub board, and the sub board is connected to the main board through a fifth wire.

[0006] The first band, the second wiring, and the fifth wiring may be covered by a first band cover, the second band and the fifth wiring may be covered by a second band cover, and the third band, the third wiring, and the fifth wiring may be covered by a third band cover.

[0007] The elasticity of the first to third band covers is lower than the elasticity of the first to third bands, but each of the first to third band covers may include wrinkles.

[0008] Each of the first panel, the second panel, the third panel, and the fourth panel includes a first fabric on a first surface and a second fabric on a second surface, wherein the first panel: the first fabric can support a controller case that accommodates the main board, and the second fabric can support an actuator case that accommodates the first actuator.

[0009] The controller case includes: a first top case disposed on a first surface of the first fabric; and a first bottom case disposed on a second surface of the first fabric; and the actuator case includes: a second bottom case disposed on a first surface of the second fabric; and a second top case disposed on a second surface of the second fabric; and the first top case and the first bottom case are coupled to each other and can be directly engaged with the first fabric.

[0010] The controller case may include: a first top case disposed on a first side of the first fabric; and a first bottom case disposed on the first side of the first fabric; and the actuator case may include: a second bottom case disposed on a first side of the second fabric; and a second top case disposed on a second side of the second fabric.

[0011] The first panel further includes: an auxiliary fabric having one end joined to the first surface of the first fabric and the other end detachably attached to the first surface of the first fabric, and the first top case and the first bottom case can be directly engaged with the auxiliary fabric while being joined to each other.

[0012] The first panel further includes: an auxiliary fabric having one end joined to the first surface of the first fabric and the other end detachably attached to the first surface of the first fabric; and a ring joined to the first bottom case, wherein the ring can be fitted to the auxiliary fabric.

[0013] The above first fabric can be interposed between the first bottom case and the second bottom case.

[0014] The first panel may further include an actuator cover that is detachable from the second surface of the second fabric and covers the second top case.

[0015] A tactile stimulus providing device according to one embodiment of the present invention is a belt-shaped tactile stimulus providing device, comprising: at least one panel; at least one actuator disposed on the panel; and a main board connected to the actuator, wherein the panel comprises: a first fabric having a first side and a second side; a second fabric having a first side opposite the second side of the first fabric; and an auxiliary fabric having one end coupled to the first side of the first fabric and the other end detachably attached to the first side of the first fabric, wherein the auxiliary fabric supports a controller case that accommodates the main board, and the second fabric supports an actuator case that accommodates the actuator.

[0016] The controller case may include: a first top case disposed on a first side of the auxiliary fabric; and a first bottom case disposed on a second side of the auxiliary fabric; and the actuator case may include: a second bottom case disposed on the first side of the second fabric; and a second top case disposed on the second side of the second fabric.

[0017] The above first top case and the above first bottom case can be directly interlocked with the auxiliary fabric while being coupled to each other.

[0018] The controller case may include: a first top case disposed on a first surface of the auxiliary fabric; and a first bottom case disposed on the first surface of the auxiliary fabric; and the actuator case may include: a second bottom case disposed on the first surface of the second fabric; and a second top case disposed on the second surface of the second fabric.

[0019] The above panel further includes a ring coupled to the first bottom case, wherein the ring can be fitted to the auxiliary fabric.

[0020] The tactile stimulation providing device according to the present invention can be closely attached to various users' torso shapes and sizes, maintain regular intervals between actuators, and prevent noise caused by collision of internal components.

[0021] Figures 1 to 3 are drawings for explaining a tactile stimulation providing device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0022] FIG. 4 is a drawing for explaining the wiring connection structure of a tactile stimulation providing device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0023] FIG. 5 is a drawing for explaining a band and band cover of a tactile stimulation providing device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0024] Figures 6 to 9 may be cross-sectional views taken along line II' of Figure 2.

[0025] FIGS. 10 to 14 are drawings for explaining a controller case according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0026] FIGS. 15 to 18 are drawings for explaining actuator cases according to embodiments of the present invention.

[0027] FIG. 19 and FIG. 20 are drawings for explaining a tactile stimulus providing device according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0028] Figure 21 is a drawing for explaining the compatibility relationship between a vest-type tactile stimulation providing device and a belt-type tactile stimulation providing device.

[0029] FIG. 22 and FIG. 23 are drawings for explaining a tactile stimulation providing device according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0030] FIG. 24 is a drawing for explaining a tactile stimulation providing device according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0031] Hereinafter, various embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings so that those skilled in the art can easily implement the invention. The present invention may be implemented in various different forms and is not limited to the embodiments described herein.

[0032] To clearly explain the present invention, irrelevant parts have been omitted, and the same reference numerals are used to designate identical or similar components throughout the specification. Accordingly, the reference numerals described above may also be used in other drawings.

[0033] Additionally, the sizes and thicknesses of each component shown in the drawings are arbitrarily shown for convenience of explanation, and thus the present invention is not necessarily limited to what is shown. In order to clearly express multiple layers and regions in the drawings, the thicknesses may be exaggerated.

[0034] FIGS. 1 to 3 are drawings for explaining a tactile stimulation providing device according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 4 is a drawing for explaining a wiring connection structure of a tactile stimulation providing device according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 5 is a drawing for explaining a band and band cover of a tactile stimulation providing device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0035] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 5, a belt-shaped tactile stimulation providing device (TBLT) according to one embodiment of the present invention is illustrated. The tactile stimulation providing device (TBLT) may include a plurality of panels (PN1, PN2, PN3, PN4).

[0036] For example, a first panel (PN1) may include a main board (MBD) and at least one first actuator (ac11, ac12). A second panel (PN2) may be connected to the first panel (PN1) via a first elastic band (bnd1) and may include at least one second actuator (ac21, ac22). A third panel (PN3) may be connected to the second panel (PN2) via a second elastic band (bnd2) and may include at least one third actuator (ac31, ac32). A fourth panel (PN4) may be connected to the third panel (PN3) via a third elastic band (bnd3) and may include a sub board (SBD) and at least one fourth actuator (ac41, ac42).

[0037] The actuators (ac11 to ac42) may be vibration motors, which are one type of electric actuator. For example, an eccentric rotating mass (ERM) motor, a linear resonance actuator (LRA), a voice coil actuator (VCA), a piezo haptic actuator, etc. may be used as the actuator. In the following description, the actuators (ac11 to ac42) are vibration motors as an example, but a plurality of actuators may be pneumatic, hydraulic, or thermal actuators. Therefore, one or more types of actuators may be applied to the present invention.

[0038] Each of the first panel (PN1) and the fourth panel (PN4) may include fastening members (mcp, fcp). For example, the fastening members (mcp, fcp) may be buckles. A user can adjust the size of the tactile stimulation providing device (TBLT) to fit the user's torso circumference by tightening the straps provided on the buckles. At this time, the insufficient elasticity of the straps is compensated for by the bands (bnd1, bnd2, bnd3), so that the tactile stimulation providing device (TBLT) can be closely fitted to various users' torso shapes and sizes, regardless of the user's torso shape.

[0039] The first wiring (acl11, acl12) connected to the first actuator (ac11, ac12) and the second wiring (acl21, acl22) connected to the second actuator (ac21, ac22) may be connected to the main board (MBD). For example, the first wiring (acl11, acl12) and the second wiring (acl21, acl22) may be connected to the motor connector (cnct1) of the main board (MBD). In addition, the third wiring (acl31, acl32) connected to the third actuator (ac31, ac32) and the fourth wiring (acl41, acl42) connected to the fourth actuator (ac41, ac42) may be connected to the sub board (SBD). For example, the third wiring (acl31, acl32) and the fourth wiring (acl41, acl42) can be connected to the motor connector (cnct2) of the sub-board (SBD). In addition, the sub-board (SBD) can be connected to the main board (MBD) via the fifth wiring (acl5). For example, one end of the fifth wiring (acl5) can be connected to the communication terminal (ccpt1) of the main board (MBD), and the other end of the fifth wiring (acl15) can be connected to the communication terminal (ccpt2) of the sub-board (SBD).

[0040] If all wires (acl11, acl12, acl21, acl22, acl31, acl32, acl41, acl42) connected to the actuators (ac11-ac42) are directly connected to the main board (MBD), the wires may become excessively long, resulting in durability issues. Furthermore, assembly may become difficult during mass production, and production costs may increase.

[0041] In the present embodiment, by arranging the sub-board (SBD) on the fourth panel (PN4) which is furthest from the first panel (PN1) where the main board (MBD) is located, the first and second actuators (ac11, ac12, ac21, ac22) can be driven under the control of the main board (MBD), and the third and fourth actuators (ac31, ac32, ac41, ac42) can be driven under the control of the sub-board (SBD). The sub-board (SBD) can be driven under the control of the main board (MBD). Therefore, the length of the wires can be reduced, thereby improving durability, facilitating assembly, and reducing production costs.

[0042] According to one embodiment, the first band (bnd1), the second wirings (acl21, acl22), and the fifth wiring (acl5) may be covered by the first band cover (bcv1). In addition, the second band (bnd2) and the fifth wiring (acl5) may be covered by the second band cover (bcv2). The third band (bnd3), the third wirings (acl31, acl32), and the fifth wiring (acl5) may be covered by the third band cover (bcv3). In this case, the elasticity of the first to third band covers (bcv1, bcv2, bcv3) may be lower than the elasticity of the first to third bands (bnd1, bnd2, bnd3), but each of the first to third band covers (bcv1, bcv2, bcv3) may include wrinkles. Referring to FIG. 5, a first band cover (bcv1) including a wrinkle and a first band (bnd1) covered by the first band cover (bcv1) are exemplarily illustrated.

[0043] A belt-shaped tactile stimulation device (TBLT) should be able to expand and contract evenly between panels (PN1 to PN4) when the size is adjusted to fit the user's body. In addition, wires (acl11 to acl5) should be able to pass and be protected between the panels (PN1 to PN4). Accordingly, while rubber bands (bnd1 to bnd3) may be used to provide sufficient resilience and elasticity, band covers (bcv1 to bcv3) that wrap the bands (bnd1 to bnd3) and the wires (acl11 to acl5) may be used to protect the wires (acl11 to acl5) and provide aesthetics.

[0044] At this time, since the band covers (bcv1 to bcv3) are made of general fabric for aesthetic purposes, their elasticity may be lower than that of the bands (bnd1 to bnd3) even if elastic fabric and thread are used. Therefore, the band covers (bcv1 to bcv3) can be configured to be longer in the left and right directions than the bands (bnd1 to bnd3) so that a portion of the band covers (bcv1 to bcv3) can be folded without being stretched. Consequently, as the bands (bnd1 to bnd3) stretch, the band covers (bcv1 to bcv3) also unfold, enabling sufficient left and right length extension. In addition, the band covers (bcv1 to bcv3) can be restored in length due to the restoring force of the bands (bnd1 to bnd3).

[0045] Each of the first panel (PN1), the second panel (PN2), the third panel (PN3), and the fourth panel (PN4) may include a first fabric (FBR1) on a first side and a second fabric (FBR2) on a second side. Hereinafter, when describing a specific fabric, the fabric is not necessarily limited to being composed of only one piece of fabric, and includes cases where it is composed of two or more pieces of fabric for the purpose of facilitating the manufacturing process or improving functionality. In addition, the two or more pieces of fabric do not always have to be composed of the same material.

[0046] The first base plate (FBR1) of the first panel (PN1) can support a controller case that accommodates a main board (MBD). Referring to FIG. 2, a first top case (tc_ct) of the controller case is illustrated, positioned on the first surface of the first base plate (FBR1). Although not illustrated, the controller case may include a first bottom case positioned on the second surface of the first base plate (FBR2).

[0047] The second base member (FBR2) of the first panel (PN1) can support an actuator case that accommodates the first actuators (ac11, ac12). Referring to FIG. 3, a second top case (tc_ac) of the actuator case arranged on the second surface of the second base member (FBR2) is illustrated. Although not illustrated, the actuator case may include a second bottom case arranged on the first surface of the second base member (FBR2). The second to fourth panels (PN2, PN3, PN4) can also be configured in the same manner as the first panel (PN1), and therefore, a duplicate description thereof will be omitted.

[0048] Referring to FIG. 3, the second fabrics (FBR2) of the first to fourth panels (PN1 to PN4) may include a slide fastener (zpp) and a first cover attachment / detachment member (cvvel1). For example, the slide fastener (zpp) may be a zipper. The slide fastener (zpp) may open the second fabrics (FBR2) to facilitate assembly and management of actuators (ac11 to ac42), a main board (MBD), a sub board (SBD), and various wires (acl11 to acl5).

[0049] The tactile stimulus providing device (TBLT) may further include an actuator cover (acv) that is attachable to a second surface of a second fabric (FBR2) and covers a second top case (tc_ac). The actuator cover (acv) may include a second cover detachable member (cvvel2). By attaching the second cover detachable member (cvvel2) to the first cover detachable member (cvvel1), the actuator cover (acv) may be attached to corresponding panels (PN1 to PN4). For example, the cover detachable members (cvvel1, cvvel2) may be hook-and-loop fasteners. For example, the cover detachable members (cvvel1, cvvel2) may be formed of Velcro. The actuator cover (acv) covers the second top case (tc_ac), thereby preventing the user's skin from making direct contact with the second top case (tc_ac). For example, the actuator cover (acv) may be made of a mesh material.

[0050] Figures 6 to 9 may be cross-sectional views taken along line II' of Figure 2.

[0051] Referring to FIGS. 6 to 9, the controller case may include a first top case (tc_ct) disposed on a first surface of a first fabric (FBR1) and a first bottom case (bc_ct) disposed on a second surface of the first fabric (FBR1). In addition, the actuator case may include a second bottom case (bc_ac11, bc_ac12) disposed on a first surface of a second fabric (FBR2) and a second top case (tc_ac11, tc_ac12) disposed on a second surface of the second fabric (FBR2). The controller case may accommodate a main board (MBD) and a battery (BATT) therein. Depending on the embodiment, the battery (BATT) may be located on the outside of the controller case.

[0052] Referring to FIG. 6, the first top case (tc_ct) and the first bottom case (bc_ct) can be directly engaged with the first fabric (FBR1) by being coupled to each other. For example, the first fabric (FBR1) can include coupling holes for coupling the controller case. In addition, to correspond to the coupling holes of the first fabric (FBR1), the first top case (tc_ct) and the first bottom case (bc_ct) can each include coupling holes (bch, tch) (see FIGS. 10 and 14). By inserting and fixing fasteners such as screws and bolts through these coupling holes, the controller case can be fixed to the first fabric (FBR1).

[0053] The first bottom case (bc_ct) may include a wiring hole (bhl1). Although not shown in FIG. 6, the wirings (acl11, acl12, acl21, acl22, acl5) of FIG. 4 may connect the actuators (ac11, ac12, ac21, ac22), the sub-board (SBD), and the main board (MBD) through the wiring hole (bhl1).

[0054] Referring to Fig. 7, the first panel (PN1) may further include a cushion member (cush) compared to the case of Fig. 6. The cushion member (cush) may be composed of air mesh, sponge, or the like. According to the embodiment of Fig. 7, it is possible to effectively prevent the first bottom case (bc_ct) and the second bottom cases (bc_ac11, bc_ac12) from colliding and generating noise.

[0055] Referring to FIG. 8, the first panel (PN1) may further include an auxiliary fabric (FBRax). The auxiliary fabric (FBRax) may support a controller case that accommodates a main board (MBD). A first top case (tc_ct) may be arranged on a first surface of the auxiliary fabric (FBRax), and a first bottom case (bc_ct) may be arranged on a second surface. The first top case (tc_ct) and the first bottom case (bc_ct) may be directly engaged with the auxiliary fabric (FBRax) while being coupled to each other. For example, the auxiliary fabric (FBRax) may include coupling holes for coupling the controller case. In addition, the first top case (tc_ct) and the first bottom case (bc_ct) may each include coupling holes (bch, tch) to correspond to the coupling holes of the auxiliary fabric (FBRax) (see FIGS. 10 and 14). By inserting and fixing fasteners such as screws and bolts through these joining holes, the controller case can be fixed to the auxiliary fabric (FBRax).

[0056] The auxiliary fabric (FBRax) has one end joined to a first side of the first fabric (FBR1) and the other end detachably attached to the first side of the first fabric (FBR1). For example, one end of the auxiliary fabric (FBRax) may be sewn and joined to the first side of the first fabric (FBR1). The other end of the auxiliary fabric (FBRax) may include a first auxiliary attachable / detachable member (axvel1), and the first side of the first fabric (FBR1) may include a second auxiliary attachable / detachable member (axvel2). For example, the auxiliary attachable / detachable members (axvel1, axvel2) may be hook-and-loop fastening members. In Fig. 8, the lengths of the auxiliary attachable / detachable members (axvel1, axvel2) in the first direction (DR1) are shown to be equal to each other. In another embodiment, the length of the first direction (DR1) of the first auxiliary attachable / detachable member (axvel1) may be longer than the length of the first direction (DR1) of the second auxiliary attachable / detachable member (axvel2). In yet another embodiment, the length of the first direction (DR1) of the second auxiliary attachable / detachable member (axvel2) may be longer than the length of the first direction (DR1) of the first auxiliary attachable / detachable member (axvel1). As a result, as described below, adjustment of the relative attachment positions of the auxiliary attachable / detachable members (axvel1, axvel2) may be facilitated.

[0057] The first fabric (FBR1) may include a wiring hole (FBR1hl). The wiring hole (FBR1hl) of the first fabric (FBR1) may be located at a position corresponding to the wiring hole (bhl1) of the first bottom case (bc_ct). Although not illustrated in FIG. 8, the wirings (acl11, acl12, acl21, acl22, acl5) of FIG. 4 may connect the actuators (ac11, ac12, ac21, ac22), the sub-board (SBD), and the main board (MBD) through the wiring holes (bhl1, FBR1hl).

[0058] According to the present embodiment, the first fabric (FBR1) can be interposed between the first bottom case (bc_ct) and the second bottom cases (bc_ac11, bc_ac12). Accordingly, the first bottom case (bc_ct) and the second bottom cases (bc_ac11, bc_ac12) can be effectively prevented from colliding and generating noise.

[0059] In addition, the auxiliary fabric (FBRax) can prevent noise by separating the controller case from the first fabric (FBR1), thereby preventing the vibration of the actuators from being transmitted to the controller case. In addition, the auxiliary fabric (FBRax) has an advantage in that the controller case can be positioned to fit the user's body shape by adjusting the relative attachment positions of the auxiliary attachable / detachable members (axvel1, axvel2). For example, when the tactile stimulation providing device (TBLT) can be worn very tightly due to the user's body shape, and the gap between the first fabric (FBR1) and the second fabric (FBR2) is further narrowed, the first auxiliary attachable / detachable member (axvel1) can be moved in the first direction (DR1) to attach the auxiliary attachable / detachable members (axvel1, axvel2). This creates additional space between the auxiliary fabric (FBRax) and the first fabric (FBR1), and prevents the bottom cases (bc_ac11, bc_ac12) from colliding and causing noise. In addition, when the controller case presses the actuator case, the second top cases (tc_acl1, tc_acl2) may dig into the user's skin, which may cause discomfort to the user. By creating additional space between the auxiliary fabric (FBRax) and the first fabric (FBR1), the user's wearing comfort may also be improved. If the tactile stimulation providing device (TBLT) is worn loosely due to the user's body shape, the controller case may be prevented from swaying by moving the first auxiliary attachable / detachable member (axvel1) in the opposite direction to the first direction (DR1) to attach the auxiliary attachable / detachable members (axvel1, axvel2).

[0060] In addition, since the auxiliary fabric (FBRax) and the controller case can be combined while the auxiliary detachable parts (axvel1, axvel2) are removed, there is an advantage of easy assembly.

[0061] Referring to FIG. 9, based on FIG. 8, the first panel (PN1) may further include a ring (rng). The ring (rng) may be coupled to the first bottom case (bc_ct). The ring (rng) may be fitted to the auxiliary fabric (FBRax). At this time, the first top case (tc_ct) and the first bottom case (bc_ct) are arranged on the first surface of the auxiliary fabric (FBRax).

[0062] The auxiliary fabric (FBRax) may include a wiring hole (FBRaxhl). The wiring hole (FBRaxhl) of the auxiliary fabric (FBRax) may be located at a position corresponding to the wiring hole (bhl1) of the first bottom case (bc_ct). Although not illustrated in FIG. 9, the wirings (acl11, acl12, acl21, acl22, acl5) of FIG. 4 may connect the actuators (ac11, ac12, ac21, ac22), the sub-board (SBD), and the main board (MBD) through the wiring holes (bhl1, FBRaxhl, FBR1hl).

[0063] According to the present embodiment, the controller case can be easily assembled to the auxiliary fabric (FBRax) by inserting the ring (rng) into the auxiliary fabric (FBRax) without using screws, bolts, etc. In addition, according to the present embodiment, the first fabric (FBR1) can be interposed between the first bottom case (bc_ct) and the second bottom cases (bc_ac11, bc_ac12). Therefore, the first bottom case (bc_ct) and the second bottom cases (bc_ac11, bc_ac12) can be effectively prevented from colliding with each other and generating noise. In addition, the auxiliary fabric (FBRax) can prevent noise by separating the controller case from the first fabric (FBR1) so that vibrations of the actuators are not transmitted to the controller case. In addition, the auxiliary fabric (FBRax) has an advantage in that the controller case can be positioned to fit the user's body shape by adjusting the relative attachment positions of the auxiliary detachable members (axvel1, axvel2).

[0064] FIGS. 10 to 14 are drawings for explaining a controller case according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0065] Referring to FIG. 10, a first surface of a first bottom case (bc_ct) of a controller case is illustrated. The first bottom case (bc_ct) may include coupling holes (bch) for coupling with a first fabric (FBR1) or an auxiliary fabric (FBRax). In addition, the first bottom case (bc_ct) may include wiring holes (bhl1, bhl2). The first bottom case (bc_ct) may include holes (bff1) and protrusion receiving grooves (bff2) for coupling with a first top case (tc_ct).

[0066] Referring to Fig. 11, a battery (BATT) may be positioned in a battery receiving space of a first bottom case (bc_ct). Referring to Fig. 12, a main board (MBD) may cover the battery (BATT). Screws, bolts, etc. may be used to connect the main board (MBD) and the first bottom case (bc_ct) through the fastening holes of the main board (MBD). At this time, since the battery receiving space of the first bottom case (bc_ct) is covered by the main board (MBD), the battery (BATT) may be stably fixed to the first bottom case (bc_ct) without a separate connecting device.

[0067] Referring to FIGS. 13 and 14, the fastening parts (tmm1) of the first top case (tc_ct) are fitted into the holes (bff1) of the first bottom case (bc_ct), so that the first top case (tc_ct) and the first bottom case (bc_ct) can be coupled. At this time, the protrusions (tmm2) of the first top case (tc_ct) are fitted into the protrusion receiving grooves (bff2) of the first bottom case (bc_ct), thereby compressing the first fabric (FBR1) or the auxiliary fabric (FBRax), so that the controller case can be more firmly supported.

[0068] FIGS. 15 to 18 are drawings for explaining actuator cases according to embodiments of the present invention.

[0069] Referring to FIGS. 15 and 16, an actuator case (2) according to one embodiment of the present invention includes a bottom case (bc2), a cover case (cc2), and a top case (tc2). Depending on the embodiment, the cover case (cc2) may not be present.

[0070] The positional relationship between the bottom case (bc2), the cover case (cc2), and the top case (tc2) can be determined based on the second fabric (FBR2). The second fabric (FBR2) can be located between the cover case (cc2) and the top case (tc2).

[0071] The actuator (ac2) is positioned on the first surface of the second fabric (FBR2) and includes a driving unit (mb2) and an eccentric mass (em2). The driving unit (mb2) and the eccentric mass (em2) may be rotatably connected via a shaft. The actuator (ac2) may be an eccentric rotation mass motor (ERM motor). The actuator (ac2) may generate vibrations by having the eccentric mass (em2) rotated by the driving unit (mb2) act as an unbalanced vibrator. The actuator (ac2) may be a cylindrical vibration motor having a cylinder diameter of about 6 mm and a total height of about 17 mm. While a coin-shaped motor generates horizontal vibrations by rotating the vibrator horizontally, the actuator (ac2) of the present embodiment may generate vertical vibrations.

[0072] The bottom case (bc2) is positioned on the first surface of the second fabric (FBR2) and includes a first receiving portion (tha2) for receiving a driving portion (mb2) and a second receiving portion (thb2) for receiving an eccentric mass (em2). That is, the bottom case (bc2) can receive all or part of the actuator (ac2) excluding the wiring. In some embodiments, if the bottom case (bc2) receives only a part of the actuator (ac2), the remaining part of the actuator (ac2) can be received by a cover case (cc2) described below.

[0073] The cover case (cc2) is positioned on the first surface of the second fabric (FBR2) and is coupled to the bottom case (bc2) to bring the driving unit (mb2) into close contact with the first receiving unit (tha2).

[0074] The cover case (cc2) can be coupled to the bottom case (bc2) while covering the actuator (ac2). When the male fastening portion (cm2) of the cover case (cc2) is fitted with the female fastening portion (bsf2) of the bottom case (bc2), the cover case (cc2) can be firmly fixed to the bottom case (bc2). In particular, the first receiving portion (tha2) and the receiving portion (cha2) can be formed so that the driving portion (mb2) of the actuator (ac2) is firmly fixed. The male fastening portion (cm2) of the cover case (cc2) can protrude so as to be parallel to the surface where the cover case (cc2) comes into contact with the second fabric (FBR2). In the present embodiment, there are four pairs of male fastening portions (cm2) and female fastening portions (bsf2), but the number may vary depending on the embodiment.

[0075] The cover case (cc2) is coupled with the bottom case (bc2) to isolate the eccentric mass (em2) from the first surface of the second fabric (FBR2), and can form a free rotation space for the eccentric mass (em2) together with the second receiving portion (thb2). That is, the receiving portion (chb2) of the cover case (cc2) can form a free rotation space that does not interfere with the rotation of the eccentric mass (em2) by matching with the second receiving portion (thb2). In addition, the receiving portion (chb2) of the cover case (cc2) also serves to isolate the eccentric mass (em2) from the first surface of the second fabric (FBR2). Therefore, even if the second fabric (FBR2) is made of a flexible cloth or rubber material, the eccentric mass (em2) can rotate reliably without worrying about hitting the second fabric (FBR2).

[0076] The top case (tc2) is located on the second side of the second fabric (FBR2) and fixes the bottom case (bc2) to the second fabric (FBR2).

[0077] The male fastening portion (tm2) of the top case (tc2) penetrates the second fabric (FBR2) and is coupled to the female fastening portion (bf2) of the bottom case, so that the actuator (ac2) and the actuator case (2) can be fixed to the second fabric (FBR2). At this time, the second fabric (FBR2) may include an opening having a shape through which the male fastening portion (tm2) can pass. According to an embodiment, the area of ​​the top case (tc2) in contact with the second surface of the second fabric (FBR2) may correspond to the area of ​​the bottom case (bc2) in contact with the first surface of the second fabric (FBR2). In this case, since the space in which the male fastening portion (tm2) can be positioned is relatively sufficient, in the present embodiment, the male fastening portions (tm2) and the female fastening portions (bf2) are formed in four pairs. Therefore, even if the actuator (ac2) vibrates more strongly, it can withstand it. According to this embodiment, since the area of ​​the top case (tc2) corresponds to the area of ​​the bottom case (bc2), sufficient vibration force is transmitted even to the relatively less sensitive back of the user, thereby providing the advantage of allowing the user to feel the vibration more clearly. Furthermore, in this embodiment, by configuring one edge of the top case (tc2) to be rounded, a more comfortable feeling can be provided to the user.

[0078] The bottom case (bc2) may include a protrusion (bm2), and the top case (tc2) may include a recessed portion (tf2). The protrusion (bm2) of the bottom case (bc2) presses against the second fabric (FBR2) and is fitted into the recessed portion (tf2), thereby enabling the actuator (ac2) and the actuator case (2) to be more firmly fixed to the second fabric (FBR2). In the present embodiment, since the area of ​​the top case (tc2) is relatively sufficient, six pairs of protrusions (bm2) and recessed portions (tf2) are formed accordingly to provide sufficient support.

[0079] Referring to FIGS. 17 and 18, an actuator case (3) according to another embodiment of the present invention includes a bottom case (bc3), a cover case (cc3), and a top case (tc3). Depending on the embodiment, the cover case (cc3) may not be present.

[0080] The positional relationship between the bottom case (bc3), the cover case (cc3), and the top case (tc3) can be determined based on the second fabric (FBR2). The second fabric (FBR2) can be located between the cover case (cc3) and the top case (tc3).

[0081] The actuator (ac3) is positioned on the first surface of the second fabric (FBR2) and includes a driving unit (mb3) and an eccentric mass (em3). The driving unit (mb3) and the eccentric mass (em3) may be rotatably connected via a shaft. The actuator (ac3) may be an ERM motor. The actuator (ac3) may generate vibrations by having the eccentric mass (em3) rotated by the driving unit (mb3) act as an unbalanced vibrator. The actuator (ac3) may be a cylindrical vibration motor having a cylinder diameter of about 6 mm and a total height of about 17 mm. While a coin-shaped motor generates horizontal vibrations by rotating the vibrator horizontally, the actuator (ac3) of the present embodiment can generate vertical vibrations.

[0082] The bottom case (bc3) is positioned on the first surface of the second fabric (FBR2) and includes a first receiving portion (tha3) for receiving a driving portion (mb3) and a second receiving portion (thb3) for receiving an eccentric mass (em3). That is, the bottom case (bc3) can receive all or part of the actuator (ac3) excluding the wiring. In some embodiments, if the bottom case (bc3) receives only a part of the actuator (ac3), the remaining part of the actuator (ac3) can be received by a cover case (cc3) described below.

[0083] The cover case (cc3) is positioned on the first side of the second fabric (FBR2) and is coupled to the bottom case (bc2) to bring the driving unit (mb3) into close contact with the first receiving unit (tha3).

[0084] Referring to FIGS. 17 and 18, the cover case (cc3) can be coupled to the bottom case (bc3) while covering the actuator (ac3). When the male fastening portion (cm3) of the cover case (cc3) is fitted with the female fastening portion (bsf3) of the bottom case (bc3), the cover case (cc3) can be firmly fixed to the bottom case (bc3). In particular, the first receiving portion (tha3) and the receiving portion (cha3) can be formed so that the driving portion (mb3) of the actuator (ac3) is firmly fixed. The male fastening portion (cm3) of the cover case (cc3) can protrude parallel to the surface where the cover case (cc3) contacts the second fabric (FBR2). In the present embodiment, there are four pairs of male fastening portions (cm3) and female fastening portions (bsf3), but the number may vary depending on the embodiment.

[0085] In this embodiment, unlike the embodiments of FIGS. 15 and 16, a spacer (ar3) may be further included that covers at least a portion of the driving unit (mb3) and is interposed between the driving unit (mb3) and the first receiving unit (tha3). For example, the spacer (ar3) may have a cylindrical shape that surrounds the outer circumference of the driving unit (mb3). In this case, the spacer (ar3) may space the driving unit (mb3), the first receiving unit (tha3), and the receiving unit (cha3) apart from each other. The spacer (ar3) may be made of an elastic material such as rubber, silicone, polyurethane, or sponge. A gap may occur between the driving unit (mb3), the first receiving unit (tha3), and the receiving unit (cha3) depending on process deviation, and the spacer (ar3) prevents noise that may occur due to such process deviation. Additionally, the spacer (ar3) can prevent noise that may occur inside the actuator (ac3) due to the load that each actuator (ac3) must vibrate being not constant.

[0086] The cover case (cc3) is coupled with the bottom case (bc3) to isolate the eccentric mass (em3) from the first surface of the second fabric (FBR2), and can form a free rotation space for the eccentric mass (em3) together with the second receiving portion (thb3). That is, the receiving portion (chb3) of the cover case (cc3) matches with the second receiving portion (thb3) to form a free rotation space that does not impede the rotation of the eccentric mass (em3). In addition, the receiving portion (chb3) of the cover case (cc3) also serves to isolate the eccentric mass (em3) from the first surface of the second fabric (FBR2). Therefore, even if the second fabric (FBR2) is made of flexible fabric or rubber, the eccentric mass (em3) can rotate reliably without worrying about hitting the second fabric (FBR2).

[0087] The top case (tc3) is located on the second side of the second fabric (FBR2), and the bottom case (bc3) is fixed to the second fabric (FBR2).

[0088] The male fastening part (tm3) of the top case (tc3) penetrates the second fabric (FBR2) and is coupled to the female fastening part (bf3) of the bottom case (bc3), so that the actuator (ac3) and the actuator case (3) can be fixed to the second fabric (FBR2). At this time, the second fabric (FBR2) may include an opening having a shape through which the male fastening part (tm3) can pass. According to an embodiment, the area of ​​the lower surface of the top case (tc3) that is in close contact with the other surface of the second fabric (FBR2) may correspond to the area of ​​the bottom case (bc3) that is in close contact with the first surface of the second fabric (FBR2). In this case, since the space in which the male fastening part (tm3) can be positioned is relatively sufficient, in the present embodiment, the male fastening parts (tm3) and the female fastening parts (bf3) are formed in four pairs. Accordingly, even if the actuator (ac3) vibrates more strongly, it can withstand it. In addition, compared to the upper surface (tts2) of the top case (tc2) of FIG. 16, the upper surface (tts3) of the top case (tc3) of FIG. 18 has a narrower area, thereby enabling the transmission of locally concentrated vibrational force to the user's body. For example, the top case (tc3) may have a truncated cone shape.

[0089] The bottom case (bc3) may include a protrusion (bm3), and the top case (tc3) may include a recessed portion (tf3). The protrusion (bm3) of the bottom case (bc3) presses against the second fabric (FBR2) and is fitted into the recessed portion (tf3), so that the actuator (ac3) and the actuator case (3) can be more firmly fixed to the second fabric (FBR2). In the present embodiment, since the area of ​​the lower surface of the top case (tc3) is relatively sufficient, six pairs of protrusions (bm3) and recessed portions (tf3) are formed accordingly to provide sufficient support.

[0090] Figures 19 and 20 are drawings for explaining a tactile stimulation providing device according to another embodiment of the present invention. Hereinafter, redundant descriptions of drawing symbols that overlap or are similar to those in the preceding drawings will be omitted.

[0091] Referring to FIGS. 19 and 20, a tactile stimulus providing device (TBLTa) according to another embodiment of the present invention includes a plurality of panels (PN1a, PN2a, PN3a, PN3a, PN4a, PN5a, PN6a, PN7a, PN8a), and each panel can be configured to include only one actuator.

[0092] According to this embodiment, the spacing between the panels (PN1a to PN8a) can be changed consistently according to changes in the user's torso circumference. In this case, there is an advantage in that the spacing between the actuators can be changed consistently.

[0093] Figure 21 is a drawing for explaining the compatibility relationship between a vest-type tactile stimulation providing device and a belt-type tactile stimulation providing device.

[0094] A vest-type tactile stimulation providing device (21) may include a right front panel (rp1), a rear panel (bp1), and a left front panel (lp1). In Fig. 21, the right front panel (rp1) and the left front panel (lp1) are shown unfolded with respect to the rear panel (bp1). The right front panel (rp1) may be elastically connected to the rear panel (bp1) via a connecting band (rcb1). The left front panel (lp1) may be elastically connected to the rear panel (bp1) via a connecting band (lcb1).

[0095] The right front panel (rp1) includes a plurality of top cases (tcr1), and actuators can be positioned to correspond to the positions of the top cases (tcr1). In addition, the rear panel (bp1) includes a plurality of top cases (tcb1), and actuators can be positioned to correspond to the positions of the top cases (tcb1). The left front panel (lp1) includes a plurality of top cases (tcl1), and actuators can be positioned to correspond to the positions of the top cases (tcl1).

[0096] For example, a vest-type tactile stimulation providing device (21) may include actuators arranged in 5 rows and 8 columns. For example, a belt-type tactile stimulation providing device (TBLTa) of FIG. 19 or a belt-type tactile stimulation providing device (TBLT) of FIG. 3 may include actuators arranged in 1 row and 8 columns.

[0097] Accordingly, the driving values ​​of the actuators of any one row of the vest-type tactile stimulation providing device (21) can be applied to the actuators of the belt-type tactile stimulation providing device (TBLT, TBLTa). In addition, the average value of the driving values ​​of the actuators of each row of the vest-type tactile stimulation providing device (21) can be applied to the actuators of the corresponding row of the belt-type tactile stimulation providing device (TBLT, TBLTa). Accordingly, if the user feels heat or discomfort while wearing the vest-type tactile stimulation providing device (21), the user can immediately wear and use the belt-type tactile stimulation providing device (TBLT, TBLTa) without separately setting the driving values.

[0098] FIG. 22 and FIG. 23 are drawings for explaining a tactile stimulation providing device according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0099] Referring to FIGS. 22 and 23, the tactile stimulus providing device (TBLTb) includes a plurality of panels (PN1b, PN2b, PN3b), and at least two of the panels may include different numbers of actuators. For example, each of the panels (PN1b, PN3b) may include two actuators, and the panel (PN2b) may include four actuators.

[0100] According to the present embodiment, the number of panels (PN1b, PN2b, PN3b) can be reduced, thereby reducing production costs. Since the tactile stimulation providing device (TBLTb) is not provided as a single free size but as multiple sizes such as small / medium / large, the deviation in the user's torso circumference is not large, and therefore, there is a clear advantage in configuring the tactile stimulation providing device (TBLTb) with a small number of panels (PN1b, PN2b, PN3b).

[0101] FIG. 24 is a drawing for explaining a tactile stimulation providing device according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0102] Referring to FIG. 24, the tactile stimulus providing device (TBLTc) may include multiple actuators, and the spacing between the multiple actuators (dsta, dstb) may be somewhat different. Such an unbalanced arrangement of actuators is possible when haptic feedback with high spatial resolution needs to be delivered to the front or back of the user's torso.

[0103] In one embodiment, the distance (dsta) between the second top cases (tc_ac) of the actuator case located on the left and right of the first top case (tc_ct) of the controller case may be greater than the distance (dstb) between the other second top cases (tc_ac). In this case, even without a separate cushion member, collision between the actuator case and the controller case can be prevented, thereby making the tactile stimulus providing device (TBLTc) thinner.

[0104] The drawings and detailed description of the invention described so far are merely illustrative of the present invention and are used solely for the purpose of explaining the present invention and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention as defined in the claims. Therefore, those skilled in the art will understand that various modifications and equivalent embodiments are possible. Accordingly, the true technical protection scope of the present invention should be determined by the technical spirit of the appended claims.

Claims

As a belt-shaped tactile stimulation device, A first panel including a main board and a first actuator; A second panel connected to the first panel through a flexible first band and including a second actuator; a third panel connected to the second panel through a second elastic band and including a third actuator; and A fourth panel connected to the third panel through a flexible third band and including a sub-board and a fourth actuator, The first wire connected to the first actuator and the second wire connected to the second actuator are connected to the main board, The third wire connected to the third actuator and the fourth wire connected to the fourth actuator are connected to the sub-board, The above sub-board is connected to the main board through the fifth wiring. Tactile stimulation providing device. In the first paragraph, The first band, the second wiring, and the fifth wiring are covered by a first band cover, The second band and the fifth wiring are covered by a second band cover, The third band, the third wiring, and the fifth wiring are covered by a third band cover. Tactile stimulation providing device. In the second paragraph, The elasticity of the first to third band covers is lower than the elasticity of the first to third bands, and each of the first to third band covers includes wrinkles. Tactile stimulation providing device. In the first paragraph, Each of the first panel, the second panel, the third panel, and the fourth panel includes a first fabric on a first side and a second fabric on a second side, The first panel above: The above first fabric supports the controller case that accommodates the main board, The above second fabric supports an actuator case that accommodates the above first actuator. Tactile stimulation providing device. In paragraph 4, The above controller case: A first top case arranged on the first side of the first fabric; and Including a first bottom case arranged on the second side of the first fabric, The above actuator case: A second bottom case arranged on the first side of the second fabric; and Including a second top case arranged on the second side of the second fabric, The first top case and the first bottom case are coupled to each other and directly interlocked with the first fabric. Tactile stimulation providing device. In paragraph 4, The above controller case: A first top case disposed on the first side of the first fabric; and Including a first bottom case arranged on the first surface of the first fabric, The above actuator case: A second bottom case arranged on the first side of the second fabric; and Including a second top case arranged on the second side of the second fabric, Tactile stimulation providing device. In paragraph 6, The first panel above: It further includes an auxiliary fabric, one end of which is attached to the first side of the first fabric and the other end of which is detachably attached to the first side of the first fabric. The first top case and the first bottom case are coupled to each other and directly interlocked with the auxiliary fabric. Tactile stimulation providing device. In paragraph 6, The first panel above: An auxiliary fabric having one end joined to the first surface of the first fabric and the other end detachably attached to the first surface of the first fabric; and Further comprising a ring coupled to the first bottom case, The above ring is fitted into the above auxiliary fabric, Tactile stimulation providing device. In any one of paragraphs 7 and 8, The above first fabric is interposed between the first bottom case and the second bottom case. Tactile stimulation providing device. In any one of paragraphs 5 and 6, The first panel above: Further comprising an actuator cover that is detachable from the second surface of the second fabric and covers the second top case. Tactile stimulation providing device. As a belt-shaped tactile stimulation device, At least one panel; At least one actuator arranged on the panel; and including a main board connected to the above actuator, The above panel: A first fabric having a first side and a second side; A second fabric having a first side facing the second side of the first fabric; and A first end is bonded to the first side of the first fabric, and the other end includes an auxiliary fabric that is detachably attached to the first side of the first fabric. The above auxiliary fabric supports the controller case that accommodates the above main board, The above second fabric supports an actuator case that accommodates the actuator. Tactile stimulation providing device. In Article 11, The above controller case: A first top case arranged on the first side of the above auxiliary fabric; and Including a first bottom case arranged on the second side of the above auxiliary fabric, The above actuator case: A second bottom case arranged on the first side of the second fabric; and Including a second top case arranged on the second side of the second fabric, Tactile stimulation providing device. In Article 12, The first top case and the first bottom case are coupled to each other and directly interlocked with the auxiliary fabric. Tactile stimulation providing device. In Article 11, The above controller case: A first top case arranged on the first side of the auxiliary fabric; and Including a first bottom case arranged on the first side of the auxiliary fabric, The above actuator case: A second bottom case arranged on the first side of the second fabric; and Including a second top case arranged on the second side of the second fabric, Tactile stimulation providing device. In Article 14, The above panel further includes a ring coupled to the first bottom case, The above ring is fitted into the above auxiliary fabric, Tactile stimulation providing device.

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