Controller Haptics Using Magnetorheological Resistance Zones
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional controllers lack enhancement in user feedback and information delivery when operating elements, such as buttons or sticks, leading to a need for improved tactile and positional feedback.
Innovation Solution
An information processing system incorporating a controller with a magnetorheological fluid-based resistance system, where the viscosity of the fluid changes with a magnetic field, allowing for dynamic control of the operation element's movable range and feedback, including distinct viscosities for different areas to simulate varied resistance and feedback.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If a conventional operation element is used, then the structure is simple, but the tactile feedback and information delivery to the user are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by dynamically adjusting the viscosity of magnetorheological fluid through magnetic field intensity variations. The circuit switches between different viscosity states (first viscosity in first area, second viscosity in second area) to provide position-dependent tactile feedback, thereby enhancing information delivery without mechanical complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical resistance mechanisms with a magnetorheological fluid system controlled by electromagnetic fields. This substitution allows for dynamic, programmable resistance characteristics that adapt to operation element position, providing rich tactile feedback without mechanical complexity
2Loss of information
If the movable area of the operation element is restricted to a basic two-dimensional area, then the structure is simple, but the operational feedback and information amount are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by creating distinct viscosity zones within the basic movable area. The first area (including initial position) has a first viscosity while the second area has a second viscosity, allowing different tactile characteristics in different regions. This enables position-specific feedback that conveys operational information without expanding the physical movable area
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamics by making the viscosity characteristic changeable based on operation element position. The circuit dynamically switches between viscosity states according to which area the operation element is in, providing adaptive feedback that enhances operational information delivery within the fixed two-dimensional area
3Ease of operation
If the viscosity of the magnetorheological fluid is changed according to position, then tactile feedback is enhanced, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the basic movable area into distinct first and second areas with different viscosity characteristics. This segmentation is achieved through a circuit that switches between different magnetic field generation states, providing enhanced tactile feedback through discrete viscosity zones rather than continuous complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements universality by using a single magnetorheological fluid system to provide multiple viscosity states corresponding to different operational areas. This multi-functional approach allows one component to deliver varied tactile feedback across different positions, enhancing ease of operation without proportionally increasing device complexity
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 rich and varied tactile feedback to users, enhancing the operational experience by dynamically adjusting resistance based on the operation element's position and direction, providing distinct feelings for different areas and scenarios.
Implementation Method 1
a resistance section using a magnetorheological fluid whose viscosity changes in accordance with an intensity of a magnetic field applied thereto
Implementation Method 2
a magnetic field generation section configured to provide the magnetic field to the magnetorheological fluid
Data Source
AI summary
This information processing system includes: a controller including an operation element, a restriction member, a resistance section using a magnetorheological fluid whose viscosity changes with an applied-magnetic-field intensity and which serves as a resistance corresponding to the viscosity when the position of the operation element is displaced, and a magnetic field generation section to provide the magnetic field; and a circuit capable of controlling the magnetic field generation section. In a first state, a movable area of a position of the operation element is restricted to a basic movable area. In a second state, the magnetic field generation section is controlled so that the viscosity becomes a first viscosity, when the operation element is in a first area, and so that the viscosity becomes a second viscosity when the operation element is in a second area.