Fluidic Haptic Layer With Apertures for Localized Force Feedback
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing haptic feedback devices struggle to realistically simulate localized forces and forces felt when gripping an item, often lacking sensitivity and precision, and are difficult to integrate into items like clothing without durability issues.
Innovation Solution
A haptic feedback device comprising a non-expandable material layer with apertures and an expandable material on its surface, connected to a fluid source, which creates localized haptic responses by inflating to form protrusions through the apertures, using materials like elastomers and textiles for flexibility and durability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a fluidic system with a bladder within a flexible layer is used, then haptic feedback can be generated, but the system cannot create sensitive or location specific haptic responses
Solution Approach 1:
The device divides the flexible layer into multiple discrete apertures distributed across the surface, with each aperture capable of independent actuation. This segmentation allows localized haptic feedback at specific positions without requiring a completely new system architecture, resolving the contradiction between localization precision and system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The flexible layer is designed with varying aperture distributions and sizes across different regions to create location-specific haptic responses. Each aperture can be independently controlled to provide tailored feedback characteristics for different body parts or application areas, achieving sensitive localization without increasing overall system complexity.
2Reliability
If expandable material is used to create haptic feedback, then localized force feedback can be generated, but the material must withstand mechanical rigor when integrated into clothing
Solution Approach 1:
The device uses a composite structure combining a flexible layer with aperture-forming elements and expandable material. This composite design provides both the durability needed for clothing integration and the flexibility required for localized haptic actuation, resolving the contradiction between material reliability and integration adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The flexible layer acts as a thin film structure that can be integrated into clothing while protecting the expandable material. This flexible shell approach maintains material durability for withstanding mechanical rigor while preserving the adaptability needed for various clothing applications and body conformations.
3Manufacturing precision
If a non-expandable material layer with apertures is used, then precise localized haptic feedback can be created, but the device becomes more complex to manufacture
Solution Approach 1:
The manufacturing process is simplified by segmenting the aperture formation into a separate step from the flexible layer production. Apertures can be created using cost-effective methods like laser drilling or punching after the flexible layer is manufactured, avoiding complex integrated manufacturing processes while maintaining precise aperture positioning for localized haptic feedback.
Solution Approach 2:
The flexible layer is manufactured first with its base properties, then apertures are added in a subsequent preliminary step. This preliminary action approach allows the flexible layer to be produced using simple, scalable methods while aperture precision is ensured during the aperture formation process, resolving the contradiction between manufacturing precision and ease of manufacture.
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 device provides precise, localized haptic feedback that mimics real-life scenarios, is durable, and can be easily integrated into clothing or other items, offering a realistic and long-lasting tactile experience.
Implementation Method 1
an expandable material located on the exterior surface or the interior surface of the non-expandable material over at least one aperture... inflating to form protrusions through the apertures
Implementation Method 2
The aperture may be surrounded by an unbroken edge or rim comprising the non-expandable material... The expandable material may comprise an interior and an exterior surface wherein the interior surface of the expandable material is adjacent to and contacts the exterior surface of the non-expandable material
Data Source
AI summary
This invention provides for a haptic feedback device comprising a body having a body cavity surrounded by a layer of non-expandable material having an interior and exterior surface and which comprises at least one aperture therethrough, and an expandable material located on the exterior surface or interior surface of the non-expandable material and covering at least one aperture, and wherein the device further comprises at least one connector for connecting the device, in use, to a source of fluid.