Haptically-Enabled Deformable Surface Shape Input
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a need for additional interfaces for deformable computing devices that can be bent, squeezed, flexed, twisted, folded, and rolled, to enhance user interaction and experience beyond traditional touchscreen interactions.
Innovation Solution
A computing device equipped with sensors to detect position and deformation, and a processor to determine haptic effects based on user interactions, transmitting signals for shape input and output, utilizing haptic output devices to provide tactile feedback.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional touchscreen interfaces are used on deformable devices, then the interface is simple to implement, but the user interaction quality and intuitiveness are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic interfaces that adapt to the deformable surface's shape changes in real-time. The interface elements automatically reposition and resize based on the current deformation state detected by sensors, allowing the interface to remain functional and intuitive across different device configurations without requiring complex manual adjustments
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates haptic feedback mechanisms that provide tactile responses to user interactions on the deformable surface. Sensors detect user input and trigger corresponding haptic effects through actuators, creating a closed-loop feedback system that enhances interaction quality by providing sensory confirmation of user actions
2Ease of operation
If haptic feedback is added to enhance user experience, then user interaction quality improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates multiple functions into unified components. The deformable surface itself serves both as the structural element and as the input interface, eliminating the need for separate buttons or controls. Haptic actuators are embedded within the surface structure, combining structural and feedback functions in a single integrated system that reduces overall complexity despite adding haptic capabilities
3Adaptability or versatility
If sensors are added to detect shape and position, then shape input capability improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple sensing functions into integrated sensor systems embedded within the deformable surface structure. Position sensors, deformation sensors, and haptic actuators are merged into a unified layered architecture, allowing the system to detect multiple parameters (position, shape, force) simultaneously without requiring separate independent sensor systems for each function
Data Source
AI summary
One illustrative computing device disclosed herein includes a first sensor configured to detect a position associated with a deformable surface and transmit a sensor signal associated with the position; and a processor in communication with the sensor, the processor configured to: receive the sensor signal; determine a haptic effect based at least in part on the sensor signal; and transmit a haptic signal associated with the haptic effect. The illustrative computing device also includes a haptic output device in communication with the processor, the haptic output device configured to receive the haptic signal and output the haptic effect.