Fluid-Mediated Tactile Surface Sensing for Accurate Input Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current tactile sense providing apparatuses and input devices lack accuracy in providing tactile sensations and detecting user input operations.
Innovation Solution
A shape changeable apparatus comprising a space forming section, a fluid controller, a signal emitter, a detector, and a generator, which deforms a member by controlling fluid flow and generates information on the deformation to provide accurate tactile sensations and detect input operations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a deformable member is used to provide tactile sensation, then the tactile sense can be provided to users, but the accuracy of detecting input operations deteriorates due to contact between detection components and the deformable member
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces fluid (gas or liquid) as an intermediary medium between the deformable member and the detection component. The fluid transmits deformation information from the deformable member to the detection component without requiring direct contact, thereby maintaining tactile sensation provision while improving input operation detection accuracy. The detection component detects changes in the fluid medium caused by deformable member deformation.
2Measurement precision
If the detector is arranged in contact with the deformable member to detect deformation, then deformation can be detected, but the detection accuracy deteriorates due to interference from the deformable member's contact state
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses fluid as an intermediary to transmit deformation information from the deformable member to the detection component. The detection component is arranged to detect the state of the fluid medium rather than directly contacting the deformable member, thereby avoiding interference from the deformable member's contact state while maintaining accurate deformation detection.
3Device complexity
If direct contact detection is used between the detector and deformable member, then the structure can be simplified, but the tactile sensation accuracy deteriorates due to interference from the detection mechanism
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces fluid as an intermediary medium that transmits deformation information without requiring complex direct contact detection mechanisms. The detection component detects changes in the fluid medium, which simplifies the overall structure while improving tactile sensation accuracy by eliminating interference from complex contact-based detection 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
Enables high-accuracy tactile sensation provision and input operation detection by controlling fluid flow and analyzing deformation information, enhancing user interface experiences.
Implementation Method 1
The fluid controller is capable of deforming the member by controlling a flow of fluid with respect to the space.
Implementation Method 2
The signal emitter emits a signal into the space. The member may be in the form of a film, and may include an inner surface situated on a side of the space, the inner surface being capable of reflecting the signal.
Implementation Method 3
The detector is arranged out of contact with the member within the space, and detects the emitted signal. The generator generates information regarding the deformation of the member on the basis of a result of the detection performed by the detector.
Data Source
AI summary
A shape changeable apparatus according to an embodiment of the present technology includes a space forming section, a fluid controller, a signal emitter, a detector, and a generator. The space forming section forms a space, and includes a deformable member that is arranged in contact with the space. The fluid controller is capable of deforming the member by controlling a flow of fluid with respect to the space. The signal emitter emits a signal into the space. The detector is arranged out of contact with the member within the space, and detects the emitted signal. The generator generates information regarding the deformation of the member on the basis of a result of the detection performed by the detector.