Flat Coil Haptic Feedback Device for Compact Operating Elements
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing haptic feedback systems for operating devices, especially in electronic switches, require significant installation space and complex designs to function effectively across varying temperature conditions, such as those found in vehicles, and fail to provide perceivable feedback in environments with extreme temperature fluctuations.
Innovation Solution
A compact operating device with a flat coil design using ferromagnetic components and printed circuit boards, where the flat coil is energized to create a magnetic field that pulls ferromagnetic plates together, providing haptic feedback through perceivable movement, and utilizing existing components like printed circuit boards and microcomputers for distance measurement without additional equipment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional haptic control systems with electromechanical switches are used, then haptic feedback can be perceived by the operator, but the device requires large installation space and complex drive mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional electromechanical switch mechanisms with a magnetic field-based actuation system. Flat coils generate magnetic fields that attract ferromagnetic plates, eliminating the need for complex mechanical drive mechanisms while maintaining haptic feedback capability through perceivable movements of the operating element
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs thin ferromagnetic plates and flat coil structures that can be integrated into compact operating elements. These thin components enable haptic feedback without requiring bulky mechanical assemblies, reducing installation space while maintaining functional reliability
2Adaptability or versatility
If haptic controls are designed for extreme temperature environments, then functionality is maintained in harsh conditions, but the design becomes more complex and requires special measures
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses ferromagnetic materials that maintain their magnetic properties across a wide temperature range, including extreme conditions. The magnetic field generation and ferromagnetic plate actuation mechanism operates reliably from -40°C to +125°C without requiring special thermal compensation or protective measures, achieving temperature adaptability through material selection rather than complex design
3Ease of manufacture
If flat coils are used instead of traditional electromagnets, then installation space is reduced and manufacturing is simplified, but the magnetic field strength must be sufficient to move ferromagnetic plates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from three-dimensional electromagnet structures to two-dimensional flat coils formed by conductor tracks on printed circuit boards. This dimensional change simplifies manufacturing and reduces installation space while maintaining sufficient magnetic field strength through optimized coil geometry and ferromagnetic plate positioning
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines ferromagnetic materials with flat coil structures to create a composite system where the ferromagnetic plates serve both as magnetic attractors and as structural components of the operating element. This integration enhances magnetic coupling efficiency and maintains strong attraction forces while using simplified flat coil geometry
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 allows for a simple, durable, and space-efficient haptic feedback system that maintains functionality across extreme temperature conditions, providing distinct haptic impressions through controlled magnetic interactions and audible feedback, while minimizing additional components and production complexity.
Implementation Method 1
By energizing the coil, a magnetic field is built up and the two ferromagnetic plates are pulled towards each other
Implementation Method 2
the two ferromagnetic plates are pulled towards each other
Implementation Method 3
If the flat coil has a ferromagnetic coil core, the magnetic flux generated by the flat coil is directed and the force acting between the two ferromagnetic flat components is further increased
Data Source
Figure 1a~2
Figure 3~4
Figure 5~6
AI summary
In an operating device comprising an operating element with haptic feedback, wherein the operating element can be actuated by an operator by means of an input member, the operating device comprises two ferromagnetic planar components (1, 2, 101, 102, 200) and a flat coil (4, 401, 402), wherein the largest surfaces of the ferromagnetic planar components (1, 2, 101, 102, 200) are oriented toward each other and said components can be moved relative to each other and the flat coil (4, 401, 402) is disposed between the ferromagnetic components (1, 2, 101, 102, 200) and the ferromagnetic planar components (1, 2, 101, 102, 200) can be moved toward each other by energizing the flat coil (4, 401, 402). The movement of one of the ferromagnetic planar components (1, 2, 101, 102, 200) can be perceptible to the tactile sense of the operator on the operating element (600) either directly or by means of a coupling device (500).