Brushless 2D Haptic Actuator with Rotational and Linear Coils
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current haptic feedback systems for virtual reality experiences, particularly in computer gaming, lack the capability to provide comprehensive two-dimensional haptic feedback, which is essential for immersive and sophisticated gaming experiences.
Innovation Solution
A brushless two-dimensional haptic actuator system comprising a magnet, rotational coils, and linear actuation coils, where the magnet is mechanically coupled to a spool, enabling both rotational and linear motion to induce haptic feedback through a circuit controlled by a microcontroller, allowing for the generation of both rotational and linear haptic responses.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional haptic feedback systems are used, then the system structure is simple, but the capability to provide two-dimensional haptic feedback is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines rotational motion and linear motion capabilities into a single haptic actuator system. The magnetic rotor can rotate around the stator while simultaneously moving linearly along the rotational axis, merging two degrees of freedom into one device to provide comprehensive two-dimensional haptic feedback.
Solution Approach 2:
The haptic actuator is designed to perform multiple functions: generating rotational haptic feedback through the rotational coil, generating linear haptic feedback through the linear actuation coils, and providing both motions simultaneously. This multi-functionality enables the single device to replace multiple traditional haptic components.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a magnet is used to induce both rotational and linear motion, then haptic feedback in multiple dimensions is achieved, but the system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a spool as an intermediary mechanical component that couples the magnetic rotor to the external haptic output mechanism. The spool translates the rotational motion of the magnet into linear motion of the output shaft, mediating between the two motion types and enabling coordinated two-dimensional haptic feedback.
3Ease of operation
If rotational coils and linear actuation coils are used together, then comprehensive haptic control is achieved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs dynamic control of the coil systems where the rotational coil and linear actuation coils can be independently energized and controlled. The microcontroller dynamically adjusts the energization patterns of different coils based on the desired haptic output, enabling precise control of both rotational and linear motions without requiring a permanently complex mechanical structure.
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 system effectively provides immersive haptic feedback by combining rotational and linear motion, enhancing the gaming experience with precise control over haptic outputs, addressing the limitations of existing systems.
Implementation Method 1
a rotational coil around the magnet and energizable to induce rotation of the magnet
Implementation Method 2
at least a first linear actuation coil disposed adjacent a first end of the magnet to induce linear motion of the magnet
Implementation Method 3
the magnet is eccentric to induce vibration as it rotates
Data Source
AI summary
An eccentric magnet rotates around a spool under the influence of an electric field generated by a rotational coil surrounding the magnet to produce haptic output by rotational vibration. The ends of the spool are connected to springs, and linear actuating coils are disposed near the respective ends of the spool to cause the spool and, hence, the magnet rotating around it, to reciprocate, generating additional haptic output from the vibrations of the reciprocating motion.