Finger Input Sensor Surface With Vibration-Based Haptic Feedback
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing finger-operated sensors lack effective haptic feedback, requiring users to rely on visual or auditory cues for input confirmation, and are limited by large surface areas and mechanical components that can wear out.
Innovation Solution
A sensor system with actuators that introduce surface vibrations to provide haptic feedback, changing frictional resistance based on finger contact points, allowing haptic feedback independent of optical or acoustic signals, and adaptable to simulate mechanical interactions like a roller or joystick.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of moving object
If a large-area touch-sensitive surface is used, then the sensor can detect finger movements across a larger area, but the sensor size increases and mechanical wear may occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical touch-sensitive surfaces with an optical detection system. A transmitting unit projects signals (e.g., light) onto the finger, and receiving units detect reflected signals to determine finger contact points. This eliminates mechanical contact and wear while maintaining detection capability across the sensor surface area.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates an optical model or representation of the finger's contact points by detecting reflected signals. Instead of directly measuring mechanical pressure or contact, the system captures optical reflections that copy the finger's position and movement information, enabling detection without physical wear.
2Loss of information
If visual or auditory feedback signals are used, then feedback can be provided to the user, but the user must observe a screen or listen to sounds, reducing direct tactile feedback
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the system detects finger contact points and provides corresponding visual or auditory feedback signals. The transmitting unit and receiving units work together to detect finger position, and this information is converted into feedback signals that inform the user of their input, creating a closed-loop interaction system.
3Area of moving object
If a punctiform or linear sensor is used, then the sensor size is reduced and two-dimensional movement resolution is achieved, but haptic feedback capability is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical haptic feedback mechanisms with an optical detection system. Instead of using physical surfaces that provide tactile resistance, the system uses transmitting and receiving units to detect finger contact points optically, maintaining small sensor size while enabling detection of two-dimensional finger 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
Enables realistic haptic feedback in a compact design without mechanical parts, enhancing user interaction through adaptable friction changes and additional optical or acoustic cues, facilitating intuitive operation.
Implementation Method 1
a transmitting unit for transmitting a signal to the finger and at least one receiving unit for receiving a signal reflected by the finger
Implementation Method 2
the sensor surface is set into surface vibrations by at least one actuator, by which the frictional resistance between the finger and the sensor surface changes as a function of the changing contact points
Data Source
AI summary
A method for detecting an operating input performed by a finger involves detecting various contact points of a contour of the finger using a sensor system on a sensor surface. The sensor system includes at least one transmitting unit for transmitting a signal to the finger and at least one receiving unit for receiving a signal reflected by the finger. A surface vibration is introduced into the sensor surface by at least one actuator, the surface vibration changes the frictional resistance between the finger and the sensor surface as a function of the changing contact points of the contour of the finger.