Electromagnetic Actuator Assembly for Quiet Surface Haptics
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing haptic feedback systems often generate audible sound due to higher frequency components and mechanical resonances, especially in large surface areas, which can amplify unwanted sounds.
Innovation Solution
An electromagnetic actuator arrangement comprising a first assembly with two permanently coupled magnets and an electromagnetic coil between them, configured to produce a magnetic field causing relative movement parallel to the magnets, providing haptic feedback without significant audible sound by minimizing air displacement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If traditional haptic feedback actuators are used, then haptic feedback is generated, but audible sound is also produced due to higher frequency components and mechanical resonances
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the vibration direction from vertical (perpendicular to surface) to horizontal (parallel to surface). This dimensional change allows the actuator to generate haptic feedback while minimizing air displacement and sound radiation, as horizontal vibrations do not push air as effectively as vertical vibrations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses two permanent magnets with opposite polarities positioned on opposite sides of the coil, creating a localized magnetic field configuration. This arrangement produces a restoring force that enables horizontal vibration while minimizing the mechanical resonance and sound generation associated with traditional vertical vibration configurations.
2Area of stationary object
If large surface areas are used for haptic feedback, then haptic feedback coverage is improved, but sound amplification increases
Solution Approach 1:
By switching from vertical to horizontal vibration direction, the patent enables large surface areas to provide haptic feedback without acting as efficient sound radiators. Horizontal vibrations parallel to the surface do not displace air as effectively, thus reducing sound amplification even over large areas.
3Ease of manufacture
If vertical vibrations are used, then haptic feedback is generated, but air displacement and sound generation increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions the vibration from the vertical dimension (perpendicular to surface) to the horizontal dimension (parallel to surface). This allows the actuator to maintain effective haptic feedback while minimizing air displacement, as horizontal movements do not compress or rarefy air as significantly as vertical movements.
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 solution effectively generates haptic feedback with reduced audible sound by utilizing horizontal vibrations that minimize air displacement, ensuring effective haptic feedback while minimizing sound generation.
Implementation Method 1
an electromagnetic coil arranged into the space between the first permanent magnet and the second permanent magnet and configured to receive an electrical signal and, in response to the electrical signal, produce a magnetic field interacting with the first permanent magnet and the second permanent magnet causing relative movement
Implementation Method 2
produce a magnetic field interacting with the first permanent magnet and the second permanent magnet causing relative movement between the first assembly and the second assembly
Data Source
AI summary
An electromagnetic actuator arrangement comprises: a first assembly attachable to a surface and including first and second permanent magnets mechanically coupled to each other. The first and second permanent magnets arranged to define a space between the first and second permanent magnets and a same polarity of the first and second permanent magnets facing the space. The arrangement includes a second assembly comprising an electromagnetic coil arranged into the space between the first and second permanent magnets and configured to receive an electrical signal and, in response to the electrical signal, produce a magnetic field interacting with the first and second permanent magnets causing relative movement between the first assembly and the second assembly at least in a movement direction parallel with a direction from the first to the second permanent magnet, and a support member for attaching the electromagnetic coil to a structure.