Button Actuator Haptic Feedback Using Induced EMF Input Sensing
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Solution Overview
Problem
General linear resonant actuators primarily function as output devices for transmitting vibrations and lack the capability to serve as input devices, limiting their functionality in providing haptic feedback.
Innovation Solution
A button type actuator system that integrates input and output capabilities, featuring a button part with a magnetic vibrator and coil, where a controller applies currents based on induced electromotive forces to provide haptic feedback and detect user input, allowing for both contact and input feedback signals to be generated.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a general linear resonant actuator is used, then vibration transmission function is achieved, but input device functionality is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The actuator is designed to perform both output functions (vibration transmission) and input functions (touch detection) within a single integrated structure. The button part serves dual purposes: it transmits vibrations to the user while simultaneously detecting touch inputs through the coil and magnetic body interaction, eliminating the need for separate input and output devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines the vibration transmission mechanism and touch detection mechanism into a single integrated actuator unit. The coil and magnetic body are incorporated within the same structure that generates vibrations, allowing the actuator to function as both an output device for haptic feedback and an input device for touch detection.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a button part is added for input detection, then input capability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The button part is designed as a multi-functional component that serves both as a vibration transmission element and a touch detection element. By integrating the coil and magnetic body within the button structure, the design achieves input capability without requiring separate detection mechanisms, thus limiting the increase in device complexity.
3Reliability
If the vibrator is made flexible with magnetic particles, then haptic feedback quality is improved, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The vibrator is constructed as a composite material combining flexible polymer matrix with uniformly dispersed magnetic particles. This composite structure provides both the flexibility needed for haptic feedback and the magnetic properties required for actuation, while the uniform distribution of particles ensures consistent performance without requiring extremely high manufacturing precision.
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
Enables the integration of input and output functions in a single actuator device, providing direct tactile sensations and various haptic feedback, enhancing user interaction by allowing the actuator to both receive and transmit feedback.
Implementation Method 1
a coil configured to form a magnetic field in the vibrator
Implementation Method 2
based on the magnitude or direction of an induced electromotive force formed when the button part is pressed or released by a user
Data Source
AI summary
A button type actuator according to one embodiment may comprise: a case; a button part having at least a part which is moved with respect to the case by a user's pressure; a vibrator connected to the button part and including a magnetic body; and a coil for generating a magnetic field on the vibrator.