Dual-Coil Mass Positioning for Independent Haptic Frequency Control

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing mass positioning systems lack the ability to finely control haptic output due to limitations in design and associated controllers, making it difficult to independently manage displacement and oscillation frequency of magnetic masses.

Innovation Solution

A mass positioning system with two conductive coils at opposite ends of a housing, coupled with a magnetic mass and a mechanical spring, allows for independent control of displacement and oscillation frequency through separate control signals, enabling precise haptic responses by generating electromagnetic field gradients.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a single coil mass positioning system is used, then the device complexity is reduced, but the ability to independently control displacement and oscillation frequency is lost

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveindependent control of displacement and oscillation frequencyVSAvoiddual coil structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system divides the control function into two separate coils positioned at opposite ends of the housing. Each coil independently controls a specific aspect of mass positioning, allowing displacement and oscillation frequency to be controlled separately through distinct control signals applied to each coil.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent adds a spatial dimension to the control system by placing coils at both ends of the housing rather than using a single coil. This dual-ended configuration creates an additional degree of freedom in the control space, enabling independent manipulation of displacement and oscillation frequency parameters.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

2Measurement precision

If traditional mass positioning systems are used, then the design is simpler, but the haptic output control precision is insufficient

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvehaptic output control precisionVSAvoidcontroller complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

Each coil is assigned a specific control function with localized effect on the magnetic mass. The first coil controls displacement while the second coil controls oscillation frequency, allowing precise local control of different haptic parameters through separate control signals.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

Solution Approach 2:

The system dynamically adjusts the magnetic field gradients generated by each coil based on real-time control signals. This enables continuous and precise control over displacement and oscillation frequency parameters, allowing the haptic output to be finely tuned according to specific application requirements.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

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

The system achieves precise control over displacement and oscillation frequency, allowing for a wider range of haptic responses and improved haptic feedback in devices such as smart wearables and vehicle systems.

Implementation Method 1

a first conductive coil proximate to the first end portion and configured to generate a first magnetic field in response to the first control signal

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic field generation: Electromagnetic Induction

Implementation Method 2

a second conductive coil proximate to the second end portion and configured to generate a second magnetic field in response to the second control signal

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic field generation: Electromagnetic Induction

Implementation Method 3

a magnetic mass coupled to the mechanical spring and having a displacement that is responsive to the first magnetic field and the second magnetic field

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMagnetic force: Lorentz Force

Implementation Method 4

a mechanical spring coupled to the first end portion... a magnetic mass coupled to the mechanical spring

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Data Source

PatentUS20250312822A1Dual Coil Mass Positioning System with Variable Oscillation Frequency
Publication Date: 2025.10.09 GOOGLE LLC
  • US20250312822A1 patent drawing
  • US20250312822A1 patent drawing
  • US20250312822A1 patent drawing

AI summary

A mass positioning system includes a first end portion separated from a second end portion, a mechanical spring coupled to the first end portion, control circuitry configured to generate a first control signal and a second control signal, a first conductive coil proximate to the first end portion and configured to generate a first magnetic field in response to the first control signal, a second conductive coil proximate to the second end portion and configured to generate a second magnetic field in response to the second control signal, and a magnetic mass coupled to the mechanical spring and having a displacement that is responsive to the first magnetic field and the second magnetic field. The mass positioning system has an oscillation frequency that is controllable by the first control signal or the second control signal.