Fluidic Haptic Power Transmission for Variable Load Wearables
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional haptic feedback systems in wearable devices, such as those used in virtual and augmented reality, are inefficient as they often require energy sources to accommodate the largest expected load, leading to inefficiencies when operating at lower loads.
Innovation Solution
A fluidic power transmission apparatus with a conduit and reciprocating input mechanism that alternates fluid flow or pressure, driving a slave unit tailored to the specific energy needs of haptic feedback components, allowing for efficient power transmission and appropriate component sizing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If energy sources are sized to accommodate the largest expected load, then the system can handle peak demands, but energy consumption increases and efficiency decreases when operating at lower loads
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the energy transmission system adjustable and adaptable to varying load conditions. The fluidic power transmission apparatus allows the slave unit to draw only the necessary amount of power from the reciprocating input mechanism, enabling the system to dynamically match energy supply with actual demand rather than operating at fixed capacity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the parameter of power transmission from fixed to variable. By using fluidic pressure and flow control, the system can adjust the amount of power transmitted to match the specific energy needs of each haptic feedback component, allowing operation at optimal efficiency across different load conditions.
2Reliability
If energy sources are sized to accommodate the largest expected load, then the system can handle peak demands, but system size and weight increase
Solution Approach 1:
The fluidic power transmission apparatus enables dynamic scaling of power delivery, allowing the use of smaller, lighter energy transmission components that can adapt to peak loads when needed rather than requiring constant high-capacity components throughout the system.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses fluidic (pneumatic/hydraulic) power transmission to deliver energy efficiently through compressible or incompressible fluids. This approach allows for flexible, lightweight transmission lines compared to rigid electrical or mechanical power transmission systems, reducing overall system weight while maintaining the ability to deliver required power levels.
3Device complexity
If conventional power transmission is used, then system design is simple, but power transmission efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs fluidic power transmission using pneumatic or hydraulic principles to achieve efficient power delivery. The use of fluid pressure and flow to transmit power reduces energy losses compared to conventional electrical or mechanical transmission, particularly in wearable applications where distance and flexibility are constraints.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the transmission medium from conventional electrical or mechanical power transmission to fluidic power transmission. This parameter change enables more efficient energy transfer with reduced losses, while the slave unit can precisely control the amount of power drawn from the fluidic source.
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
This approach enables efficient power transmission and reduces energy consumption by matching the energy requirements of each haptic feedback component, improving the efficiency and usability of wearable haptic systems.
Implementation Method 1
a reciprocating input mechanism for alternating fluid flow and/or fluid pressure within the conduit
Data Source
AI summary
The disclosed fluidic power transmission apparatus may include a conduit having an internal volume for containing a fluid, a reciprocating input mechanism for alternating at least one of fluid flow or fluid pressure within the conduit, the reciprocating input mechanism being in fluid communication with the internal volume of the conduit, and a slave unit coupled to the conduit such that the slave unit is positioned to be driven by the alternating fluid flow or fluid pressure within the internal volume of the conduit. Various other methods and systems are also disclosed.