Synchronous Belt Slip Simulation for Multi-Directional Tactile Feedback

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing tactile simulation solutions, such as those for slip sensation, are complex in structure, limited in movement range, and can only provide slide simulation in a single direction, resulting in poor user experience.

Innovation Solution

A slip simulation apparatus using a synchronous belt structure that allows infinite rotation without displacement constraints, enabling continuous slip simulation in multiple directions and speeds, with a simple and cost-effective design.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Length of moving object

If a synchronous belt structure is used to enable infinite rotation, then the movement range is improved, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemovement rangeVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Length of moving objectVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The synchronous belt structure serves multiple functions: it transmits rotational motion, enables infinite rotation without displacement constraints, and provides continuous slip simulation. This multi-functionality allows a single component to address movement range limitations while maintaining structural efficiency.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The synchronous belt acts as an intermediary element between the motor and the simulation interface, transferring rotational motion while enabling continuous, constraint-free rotation. This mediator approach resolves the contradiction by decoupling the motor's rotational capability from the simulation requirements.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Adaptability or versatility

If multiple synchronous belts are used to provide slide simulation in multiple directions, then the adaptability is improved, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedirectional simulation capabilityVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system divides the slip simulation function into multiple independent synchronous belts, each responsible for a specific direction. This segmentation allows each belt to handle a particular directional component, and through coordination, achieve multi-directional simulation capability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent transitions from single-direction to multi-directional simulation by introducing additional synchronous belts operating in different directions. This dimensional expansion enables the system to simulate slip in multiple directions simultaneously through the coordinated action of belts arranged at different orientations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

3Measurement precision

If a complex slip simulation apparatus is used to provide accurate slip sensation, then the measurement precision is improved, but the ease of manufacture deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveslip sensation accuracyVSAvoidease of manufacture
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent uses synchronous belts to create a simplified copy of the slip sensation mechanism. Instead of complex mechanical linkages, the system replicates slip effects through the friction and motion characteristics of the synchronous belt, achieving accurate slip simulation with simpler manufacturing requirements.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

Solution Approach 2:

The invention replaces complex mechanical slip simulation mechanisms with a more manufacturable synchronous belt system. The synchronous belt's inherent friction characteristics and motion transmission properties are utilized to generate slip sensations, eliminating the need for intricate mechanical assemblies while maintaining simulation accuracy.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

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

The apparatus provides real-time perception of sliding speed and direction, facilitating seamless interaction with controlled objects through a simple and affordable mechanism.

Implementation Method 1

the synchronous belt being sleeved on the synchronous wheel and the limiter, the motor being drivingly connected to the at least one synchronous wheel to drive, according to the rotating speed control signal, the at least one synchronous wheel and the at least one synchronous belt to rotate

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectFriction: Friction

Data Source

PatentEP4029578B1Slip sense simulation device, controlled robot, and gamepad
Publication Date: 2026.04.22 TENCENT TECHNOLOGY (SHENZHEN) CO LTD
  • EP4029578B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP4029578B1 patent drawingFigure 2A~2B
  • EP4029578B1 patent drawingFigure 2C

AI summary

Embodiments of this application provide a slip simulation apparatus, a controlled robot, a game handle, a virtual game console, and a control system. The slip simulation apparatus includes a base; at least one motor arranged on the base; a slip simulation controller, configured to: receive slip data, and generate a rotating speed control signal used for controlling the at least one motor; and at least one synchronous wheel, at least one synchronous belt, and at least one limit apparatus associated with the motor, the synchronous wheel being sleeved on the synchronous belt and the limit apparatus, the motor being drivingly connected to the at least one synchronous wheel to drive, according to the rotating speed control signal, the at least one synchronous wheel and the at least one synchronous belt to rotate.