Flexible Tactile Surface for Continuous Pressure Stimulation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing tactile sense presentation apparatuses struggle to generate continuous and controlled large-area pressure stimulation or move pressure stimulation effectively, as they typically provide discrete stimulation points.
Innovation Solution
The apparatus includes an enclosure section, operation sections with varying heights, and an exposure section with flexible components that deform in response to changes in operation section heights, allowing for controlled displacement and pressure distribution across a region.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of moving object
If multiple discrete pressure stimulation points are used, then pressure stimulation can be generated at specific locations, but continuous large-area pressure stimulation cannot be achieved and pressure stimulation feels discrete
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a flexible exposure section (thin film) that can be deformed by multiple operation sections to create continuous large-area pressure stimulation. The flexible film allows smooth deformation across multiple contact points, merging discrete stimulations into a continuous tactile sensation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent divides the pressure stimulation function into multiple operation sections that can independently control different regions. By coordinating these segmented operation sections, the system achieves continuous large-area stimulation while maintaining independent control capability.
2Adaptability or versatility
If discrete pressure stimulation points are used, then pressure stimulation can be generated, but movement of pressure stimulation is difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs dynamically deformable operation sections that can change their height and position. This dynamic capability allows the pressure stimulation to move smoothly across the exposure section by coordinating the movement of multiple operation sections, rather than being fixed at discrete points.
Solution Approach 2:
The operation sections are designed to perform multiple functions: they can individually stimulate specific points, collectively create large-area stimulation, and coordinate to move the stimulation region. This multi-functionality enables both precise position control and smooth movement.
3Area of moving object
If the exposure section is made flexible to enable deformation, then large-area pressure stimulation can be generated, but structural strength may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent likely uses composite material structures for the exposure section that combine flexibility with sufficient strength. The composite structure allows the section to deform for large-area stimulation while maintaining the structural integrity needed to withstand operational forces.
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 the generation of continuous pressure stimulation over an area and controlled movement of the stimulation region, enhancing the presentation of tactile sensations by adjusting the area, pressure, and position of the stimulation region.
Implementation Method 1
at least one of the plurality of operation sections has a drive section whose height in the first direction is changed by electromagnetic force
Implementation Method 2
at least one of the plurality of operation sections may be filled with fluid, and the height in the first direction may change due to a change in volume or pressure of the fluid
Implementation Method 3
an exposure section including a first contact portion with which the first operation section makes contact, a second contact portion with which the second operation section makes contact, and a middle portion which is a portion between the first contact portion and the second contact portion, and is deformed along with displacement of the middle portion due to a change in the heights in the first direction of the first operation section and the second operation section
Data Source
AI summary
[Object] To provide a tactile sense presentation apparatus and a tactile sense presentation system with excellent control of pressure stimulation. [Solving Means] A tactile sense presentation apparatus according to an embodiment of the present technology includes an enclosure section, a plurality of operation sections, and an exposure section. The plurality of operation sections includes a first operation section whose height in a first direction with respect to the enclosure section changes and a second operation section whose height in the first direction with respect to the enclosure section changes. The exposure section includes a first contact portion with which the first operation section makes contact, a second contact portion with which the second operation section makes contact, and a middle portion which is a portion between the first contact portion and the second contact portion, and is deformed along with displacement of the middle portion due to a change in the heights in the first direction of the first operation section and the second operation section, and the displacement of the middle portion includes a component in the first direction.