Multi-Axis Gimbal Mounting With Haptic Null Feedback
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing user input devices with haptic feedback struggle to maintain precise control of multiple degrees of freedom simultaneously, especially in applications like drone flight and virtual/augmented reality, where accurate detection of zero input positions is crucial for intuitive control.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of gimbal supports that allow control members to be pivoted about multiple axes with haptic feedback mechanisms, such as mechanical detents or magnets, to inform users of zero command positions, enabling precise control in up to six degrees of freedom while allowing for tactile feedback and locking of certain degrees of freedom.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If haptic feedback mechanisms are added to control members, then user awareness of zero input positions is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements haptic feedback mechanisms including mechanical detents and magnetic fields that provide tactile cues to users when control members are at zero input positions. This feedback system allows users to sense the neutral position through tactile sensations, improving measurement precision of the control state without requiring complex electronic sensors or displays.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical spring-based centering mechanisms with magnetic fields that provide both centering force and haptic feedback. This substitution reduces mechanical complexity while maintaining the ability to detect and communicate zero input positions to the user through tactile sensations.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple degrees of freedom are enabled simultaneously, then control versatility is improved, but difficulty of detecting and measuring zero positions worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the control system into separate gimbal mechanisms for each degree of freedom, with independent haptic feedback for each axis. This segmentation allows users to detect zero positions on each axis independently through tactile feedback, making it easier to manage multiple degrees of freedom simultaneously without confusion between axes.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces mechanical detents and magnetic fields as intermediary elements between the control members and the user's sense of position. These intermediaries provide tactile cues that clearly indicate when each control member is at its zero position, serving as a mediator that translates complex multi-axis positions into simple tactile sensations for the user.
3Manufacturing precision
If tactile feedback mechanisms are implemented, then user control precision is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs magnetic components and gimbal structures that serve multiple functions: providing mechanical support, enabling rotation, and generating haptic feedback simultaneously. This multi-functionality reduces the total number of separate components needed, simplifying manufacturing and assembly while maintaining precise control member positioning and tactile feedback capabilities.
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 solution enables users to maintain precise control of multiple degrees of freedom simultaneously, providing intuitive control and reducing unintended motions, thereby enhancing user experience in applications like drone flight and virtual/augmented reality.
Implementation Method 1
haptic feedback mechanisms, such as mechanical detents or magnets, to inform users of zero command positions
Data Source
AI summary
A gimbal support that senses rotational displacement and provides haptic feedback in one, two or three dimensions of a manually-operated control member used to generate control inputs using a single hand while also limiting cross-coupling.