Electromagnetic Haptic Button Assembly With Lateral Tactile Motion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional electromagnetic buttons in electronic devices require significant space and provide limited functionality, failing to effectively provide tactile feedback to users.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of haptic button assemblies that incorporate magnetic components and conduction loops to generate electromagnetic forces, causing lateral translation of an input member and producing perceivable haptic outputs, simulating traditional button press operations without significant inward translation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional electromagnetic buttons are used, then button functionality is provided, but significant space is required and limited tactile feedback is given
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical electromagnetic buttons with a haptic actuator system that uses electromagnetic forces to generate tactile feedback. The haptic actuator includes a magnetic component and a conduction loop that interacts with the magnetic flux to produce lateral translation of the input member, providing perceivable haptic output without requiring the space of traditional mechanical buttons
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces lateral translation movement (horizontal dimension) as the primary haptic feedback mechanism instead of traditional inward depression (vertical dimension). The input member translates laterally in response to applied force, and the haptic actuator generates counteracting lateral forces, creating tactile feedback in a different dimensional direction that reduces space requirements
2Adaptability or versatility
If traditional electromagnetic buttons are used, then input detection is provided, but haptic feedback functionality is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the input detection function and haptic feedback function into a single integrated haptic button assembly. The input member serves both as the detection element and the haptic output element, while the haptic actuator provides both the actuation force and the tactile feedback. This merging reduces overall device complexity compared to separate buttons and haptic mechanisms
Solution Approach 2:
The haptic button assembly serves multiple functions: detecting user input through the input sensor, generating haptic feedback through lateral translation, and providing tactile response through the conduction loop and magnetic component interaction. This multi-functionality increases adaptability while managing complexity through integrated design
3Ease of operation
If haptic button assemblies with lateral translation are implemented, then effective tactile feedback is provided, but device structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical spring-loaded button mechanisms with an electromagnetic haptic actuator system. The haptic actuator uses magnetic flux and electrical current interaction to generate lateral translation forces, eliminating the need for mechanical springs, levers, and linkages while providing effective tactile feedback through controlled lateral movement of the input member
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 haptic button assemblies provide effective tactile feedback to users, enhancing the user experience by mimicking traditional button presses with noticeable lateral movement, while maintaining a compact design.
Implementation Method 1
The conduction loop has a conductive segment configured to conduct an electrical current through the magnetic flux in a direction that is transverse to a local flux direction of the magnetic flux
Implementation Method 2
The processing unit may be configured to cause an electrical current to be applied to the conductive coil, thereby deflecting the spring member away from the contact member
Data Source
AI summary
A haptic button assembly may be used for detecting inputs and providing haptic outputs at an electronic device. The haptic outputs may be provided in response to detected inputs or in response to other conditions at the electronic device. The haptic button assembly may define an input surface along an exterior of the electronic device. Inputs may be provided to the input surface of the haptic button assembly. An input may include a touch input on or along the input surface and/or a force input directed substantially perpendicularly to the input surface. The haptic button assembly may provide a haptic output by moving an input member of the haptic button assembly laterally (e.g., substantially parallel to the input surface).