Locally Flexible Enclosure Structure for Haptic Input Surfaces
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional electronic device enclosures with user interface surfaces, such as trackpads, are structurally weakened due to openings, increasing manufacturing complexity and susceptibility to damage.
Innovation Solution
An electronic device enclosure with integrated force input/haptic output interfaces, featuring locally-flexible regions defined by reduced-thickness sections and support structures, where force transducers like piezoelectric elements induce bending moments to generate haptic outputs through the external surface.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If an opening is created in the enclosure to accommodate a user interface surface, then the user interface functionality is improved, but the structural integrity and durability of the enclosure deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The enclosure is divided into multiple sections: a first section with the user interface surface and a second section forming a structural backbone. This segmentation allows the first section to be optimized for user interaction while the second section maintains structural integrity, resolving the contradiction between functionality and strength.
Solution Approach 2:
A bridge structure is introduced as an intermediary element connecting the first and second sections of the enclosure. This bridge transfers mechanical loads from the user interface section to the structural backbone section, allowing the opening for user interface functionality while maintaining overall structural integrity through load distribution.
2Adaptability or versatility
If an opening is created in the enclosure for the user interface surface, then the user interface functionality is improved, but the manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The enclosure is divided into multiple sections: a first section with the user interface surface and a second section forming a structural backbone. This segmentation allows the first section to be optimized for user interaction while the second section maintains structural integrity, resolving the contradiction between functionality and strength.
Solution Approach 2:
A bridge structure is introduced as an intermediary element connecting the first and second sections of the enclosure. This bridge transfers mechanical loads from the user interface section to the structural backbone section, allowing the opening for user interface functionality while maintaining overall structural integrity through load distribution.
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 enhances structural integrity while providing effective haptic feedback without compromising the enclosure's durability, simplifying manufacturing and reducing damage susceptibility.
Implementation Method 1
A force transducer (such as a piezoelectric element) is coupled to the support structure. As a result of this construction, an actuation of the force transducer induces a bending moment into the support structure to generate a haptic output through the external surface.
Data Source
AI summary
A force input/haptic output interface for an electronic device can include a force input sensor and a haptic actuator. In one example, the force input sensor and the haptic actuator are accommodated on a frame positioned below an input surface. In many examples, the frame includes relieved portions that redirect and/or concentrate compression or tension in the haptic actuator into the frame.