Complex Mass Trajectories for Vertical Haptic Feedback
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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 the 'J' trajectory, within haptic components, which allows for the creation of vertical vibrations, taps, and lateral vibrations by altering the motion path of inertial masses, enabling multifunctional haptic feedback in a compact form factor.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional haptic technologies (LRAs or ERMs) are used, then the device can produce haptic effects, but the haptic effects are limited to specific orientations and cannot be produced parallel to the thinnest package dimension
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dimensionality change by transitioning from simple linear or rotational motion to complex two-dimensional trajectories (such as Lissajous figures). This allows the inertial mass to move in multiple directions simultaneously, enabling haptic effects parallel to the thinnest package dimension without increasing device thickness. The complex trajectory definition module configures motion paths that exploit the available spatial dimensions within the thin form factor.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adjusts the trajectory parameters of the inertial mass based on desired haptic effects. By continuously modifying the motion path characteristics (frequency, amplitude, orientation) of the inertial mass, the system can produce diverse haptic effects including taps, vibrations, and impulses in various orientations, all within the same thin package without requiring multiple fixed-orientation actuators.
2Adaptability or versatility
If simple trajectories (continuous rotation or linear reciprocating motion) are used, then the haptic component structure is simple, but the haptic effects are limited to a single type and orientation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements universality by designing a single haptic component capable of producing multiple types of haptic effects (taps, vibrations, impulses) in multiple orientations through complex mass trajectories. This multi-functional approach eliminates the need for separate actuators for different haptic effects, reducing overall system complexity while expanding capability. The complex trajectory definition module enables one actuator to perform the functions previously requiring multiple specialized components.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the inertial mass is constrained to move in a straight line or rotate around a fixed axis, then the ramp up and ramp down times are reduced, but the haptic component can only create a single vibrational effect
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically controls the inertial mass to transition between different motion phases within the complex trajectory. By carefully managing the acceleration and deceleration phases during trajectory transitions, the system achieves rapid response times while still enabling diverse haptic effects. The complex mass trajectories allow the inertial mass to quickly switch between different motion patterns (e.g., from linear to rotational components) to produce varied haptic outputs without excessive ramp times.
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 effects, including vertical vibrations and taps, perpendicular to the thinnest dimension, enhancing user interaction in thin consumer devices by providing more nuanced and varied feedback.
Implementation Method 1
These haptic components use moving masses to transfer momentum to the user
Implementation Method 2
a voice coil actuator configured to generate a magnetic force on the inertial mass
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.