Feedback Device Actuator Frequency Control Audio Haptic Output
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Solution Overview
Problem
Consumer electronic devices face suboptimal user experiences due to unintended side effects from haptic devices producing sound and sound-emitting devices causing vibrations, leading to uncontrolled and degraded feedback.
Innovation Solution
A feedback device with actuators connected to a substantially flat surface, capable of producing vertical and horizontal movements to create both audio and haptic outputs, using processing devices to transmit actuator input signals that differentiate between frequencies for distinct outputs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If separate haptic devices and speakers are used to provide feedback, then distinct haptic and audio outputs can be provided, but unintended side effects occur where haptic devices produce sound and speakers produce vibrations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines haptic and audio output functions into a single feedback device with a common feedback surface. Actuators are operably connected to the feedback surface to produce both haptic vibrations and audio sounds through the same surface, eliminating the side effects of separate devices while maintaining distinct output capabilities through frequency-based control
2Reliability
If frequency-based control is used to differentiate between audio and haptic outputs, then controlled feedback can be achieved, but device complexity increases due to processing requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses frequency as a control parameter to differentiate between haptic and audio outputs. The processing device transmits actuator input signals at different frequencies to the actuators: higher frequencies produce haptic vibrations while lower frequencies produce audio sounds through the feedback surface, enabling controlled output without complex additional mechanisms
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 provides controlled and enhanced user feedback by producing audio and haptic outputs effectively, mimicking mechanical sounds and enhancing the user experience without the side effects of traditional haptic and sound devices.
Implementation Method 1
one or more actuators operably connected to the feedback surface... each actuator can be operably connected to a respective side edge of the substantially flat feedback surface and produce vertical and horizontal movement in the feedback surface
Implementation Method 2
The movement in the feedback surface may also provide a haptic output to a user... produce vibrations in a surface that are felt by the user
Data Source
AI summary
An electronic device can include one or more actuators. The actuator or actuators may be operably connected to a feedback surface. Movement is produced in at least one actuator that causes an audio output. The movement in the actuator(s) by itself may produce the desired audio output. The movement in the actuator(s) can produce a force in at least one direction that produces movement in the feedback surface, and the movement in the feedback surface produces audio output. The movement in the actuator may also provide a haptic output to a user.