Application Peripheral Haptic Module With Selectable Recoil Masses
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing gun-shaped controllers for videogames and VR systems lack realistic haptic feedback, particularly in transitioning between different in-game weapons, and current rumble-pack technologies are not sufficiently immersive.
Innovation Solution
A haptic feedback module incorporating a linear impact unit with a selectively attachable mass mechanism, using a linear solenoid to create varying recoil effects by adding or detaching additional masses based on in-game weapon changes, enhancing the haptic feedback experience.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed mass is used in the haptic feedback module, then the device complexity is reduced, but the adaptability to different in-game weapons is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The mass configuration is made dynamic through a retention mechanism that can attach or detach additional masses based on the selected in-game weapon. The linear solenoid dynamically reconfigures the mass arrangement to match different weapon characteristics, enabling adaptability without permanent complex structural changes.
Solution Approach 2:
The haptic feedback module is segmented into a base mass and detachable additional masses. This segmentation allows the system to reconfigure its total mass by attaching or removing individual mass components, providing versatility while keeping each individual component simple.
2Reliability
If additional masses are added to increase reaction force, then the haptic feedback realism is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The retention mechanism uses a linear solenoid to dynamically attach or detach additional masses based on the required reaction force for different weapons. This dynamic reconfiguration allows the system to optimize haptic feedback realism for each weapon type without requiring permanently complex multi-mass structures.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the mass parameter by selectively attaching or detaching additional masses to match the physical characteristics of different in-game weapons. This parameter adjustment enables realistic haptic feedback for each weapon type while maintaining a relatively simple base structure.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a complex mass retention mechanism is used, then the adaptability to different weapons is improved, but the ease of operation decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The linear solenoid automatically attaches or detaches additional masses based on signals from the entertainment device indicating the selected weapon type. This self-service mechanism eliminates the need for manual intervention by the user to reconfigure the haptic feedback module, maintaining ease of operation while achieving high adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The system receives feedback about the selected in-game weapon from the entertainment device and automatically reconfigures the mass arrangement accordingly. This closed-loop feedback mechanism ensures the haptic feedback module adapts to different weapons without requiring user awareness or manual adjustment.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Provides a more realistic and immersive haptic feedback experience by dynamically adjusting recoil effects to match in-game weapon characteristics, improving user engagement and satisfaction.
Implementation Method 1
A linear solenoid is provided which is configured to linearly move the mass
Implementation Method 2
the retention mechanism is configured to release the at least one additional mass to magnetically couple with the first mass upon receipt of a signal to increase the reaction force
Data Source
AI summary
A haptic feedback module, comprises a linear impact unit, comprising in turn a linear motion driver, mechanically coupled to a first mass, and configured to linearly move the first mass thereby generating a reaction force to be felt by a user of the haptic feedback module; and at least one additional mass, retainable at a position separate from motion of the first mass by a retention mechanism; wherein upon receipt of a signal to increase the reaction force, the retention mechanism is configured to release the at least one additional mass to magnetically couple with the first mass.