Electromagnetic Radiation Haptic Feedback Spatial Resolution
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current haptic technologies face challenges in achieving high spatial resolution and miniaturization for tactile feedback, with mechanical devices experiencing inertia and electrical stimulation having poor spatial resolution due to current spreading.
Innovation Solution
The use of transcutaneously focused electromagnetic radiation, such as light in the infrared or visible spectrum, to stimulate neural tissue directly or indirectly, inducing action potentials and providing high spatial resolution through the application of specific wavelengths and patterns of electromagnetic radiation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If mechanical devices are used for haptic feedback, then tactile feedback can be provided, but spatial resolution is limited and miniaturization is difficult due to inertia
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical haptic feedback devices with an electromagnetic radiation-based system. Instead of using mechanical actuators that suffer from inertia and limited spatial resolution, the invention uses focused electromagnetic radiation (such as infrared or visible light) to directly stimulate neural tissue, thereby achieving high spatial resolution without the constraints of mechanical mass and inertia.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces electromagnetic radiation as an intermediary between the user and the haptic feedback system. Rather than directly mechanically stimulating the skin, the system uses electromagnetic radiation to indirectly stimulate neural tissue, which then generates the haptic sensation. This intermediary approach enables precise spatial control and eliminates mechanical inertia limitations.
2Measurement precision
If electrical stimulation is used, then haptic feedback can be provided, but spatial resolution is poor due to current spreading
Solution Approach 1:
The patent substitutes electrical stimulation with electromagnetic radiation stimulation. Instead of using electrical currents that spread through tissue and achieve poor spatial resolution, the invention employs focused electromagnetic radiation beams that can be precisely directed at specific neural targets, achieving superior spatial resolution without current spreading losses.
3Measurement precision
If transcutaneously focused electromagnetic radiation is used to stimulate neural tissue, then high spatial resolution cutaneous sensations can be induced, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses electromagnetic radiation as an intermediary that naturally focuses through optical elements, eliminating the need for complex mechanical or electrical focusing mechanisms. The radiation itself carries the spatial information and can be focused using simple optical components, thereby achieving high spatial resolution with relatively simple system architecture.
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
This approach enables the induction of precise cutaneous sensations with higher spatial resolution and reliability compared to mechanical or electrical methods, suitable for various applications including telepresence, virtual reality, and medical uses.
Implementation Method 1
electromagnetic radiation suitable for directly or indirectly exciting neural tissue
Implementation Method 2
at least one focusing element controllable for selectively focusing the electromagnetic radiation emitted by the electromagnetic radiation emission system
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure provides various systems and methods for inducing cutaneous sensations by delivering electromagnetic radiation to directly or indirectly excite neural tissue. An electromagnetic radiation source, such as one or more infrared lasers, may be used to transcutaneously excite neural tissue. The excited neural tissue may be interpreted by the user's nervous system as cutaneous sensations. Accordingly, a system as described herein may be used to induce sensations to allow actual cutaneous sensations to be simulated. A system for inducing a cutaneous sensation via transcutaneously focused electromagnetic radiation may be incorporated in a display to provide cutaneous sensation feedback or used as a separate accessory component associated with a display. Numerous additional applications and variations are provided herein.