Complex Mass Trajectories for Thin Haptic Actuators
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current haptic technologies, such as linear resonant actuators (LRAs) and eccentric rotating masses (ERMs), are inadequate for producing haptic effects oriented parallel to the thinnest package dimension in consumer electronics and fail to create haptic effects along multiple axes in thin form factors.
Innovation Solution
The use of complex mass trajectories, specifically 'J' trajectories, within haptic components, which allow for the creation of vertical vibrations, taps, and lateral vibrations by varying the motion path of inertial masses, enabling multifunctional haptic feedback in thin packages.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If ERMs are used to provide haptic feedback in thin packages, then high amplitude vibrational output is achieved, but ramp up and ramp down times are high and only a single vibrational effect can be produced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the mass trajectory adjustable and variable. The haptic actuator can dynamically change its operating mode between LRA and ERM configurations, and further between different LRA modes (resonant, non-resonant, asymmetric, symmetric) by varying the mass trajectory parameters. This allows a single device to adapt to different haptic feedback requirements without physical reconfiguration.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements multi-functionality by designing a universal haptic actuator that can produce multiple types of haptic feedback (vibrations, taps, pulses) and operate in multiple modes (LRA and ERM configurations) within a single device. The ability to switch between different mass trajectories enables one component to serve multiple haptic purposes.
2Speed
If LRAs are used to reduce ramp up and ramp down times, then faster response is achieved, but typically only a single vibrational effect can be created
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the mass trajectory adjustable and variable. The haptic actuator can dynamically change its operating mode between LRA and ERM configurations, and further between different LRA modes (resonant, non-resonant, asymmetric, symmetric) by varying the mass trajectory parameters. This allows a single device to adapt to different haptic feedback requirements without physical reconfiguration.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements multi-functionality by designing a universal haptic actuator that can produce multiple types of haptic feedback (vibrations, taps, pulses) and operate in multiple modes (LRA and ERM configurations) within a single device. The ability to switch between different mass trajectories enables one component to serve multiple haptic purposes.
3Length of moving object
If mass trajectory is oriented perpendicular to the thinnest package dimension, then range of motion is increased, but output momentum is oriented perpendicular to the thinnest package dimension which is not ideal for most applications
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the mass trajectory adjustable and variable. The haptic actuator can dynamically change its operating mode between LRA and ERM configurations, and further between different LRA modes (resonant, non-resonant, asymmetric, symmetric) by varying the mass trajectory parameters. This allows a single device to adapt to different haptic feedback requirements without physical reconfiguration.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies asymmetry by using asymmetric mass trajectories where the mass does not follow a symmetric path. The asymmetric LRA mode uses a mass trajectory that is not symmetric about the center position, creating asymmetric acceleration patterns that can produce desired haptic effects. This asymmetric approach allows the output momentum to be oriented in the optimal direction (parallel to the thinnest package dimension) rather than perpendicular to it.
4Adaptability or versatility
If complex mass trajectories are used, then multiple haptic effects along multiple axes are achieved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements multi-functionality by designing a universal haptic actuator that can produce multiple types of haptic feedback (vibrations, taps, pulses) and operate in multiple modes (LRA and ERM configurations) within a single device. The ability to switch between different mass trajectories enables one component to serve multiple haptic purposes.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies parameter changes by varying parameters of the mass trajectory (amplitude, frequency, shape, orientation) to achieve different haptic effects. Instead of using physically complex mechanisms for each haptic effect, the system changes the parameters of a single mass trajectory to produce diverse haptic outputs, thereby reducing mechanical complexity while increasing versatility.
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
This approach enables the production of a wide range of haptic signals, including vertical vibrations and taps, enhancing user interaction in thin consumer devices by effectively utilizing space and improving haptic feedback capabilities.
Implementation Method 1
A linear motor is coupled to accelerate the inertial masses along the desired paths in relation to a position of the linear motor
Implementation Method 2
The inertial masses are accelerated along the desired paths... The acceleration of the inertial masses generates a haptic output signal
Data Source
AI summary
A haptic actuator includes mechanical links defining a first J-trajectory and mechanical links defining a second J-trajectory as well as a motor coupled to the mechanical links so as to synchronously accelerate a first mass over the first J-trajectory and a second mass over the second J-trajectory. During a first time interval, reactive forces of the first mass accelerating substantially balance reactive forces of the second mass accelerating and during a second time interval reactive forces of the first mass accelerating do not substantially balance reactive forces of the second mass accelerating. This un-balanced condition results in a tap signal being produced.