Multi-Axis Gimbal Mounting With Tactile 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 zero input positions are crucial for intuitive control.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of gimbal supports that allow control members to be pivoted about multiple axes with accurate angular displacement measurement and tactile feedback, enabling users to discern zero command positions through mechanical detents or magnetic feedback, allowing for independent control of up to six degrees of freedom.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple degrees of freedom are controlled simultaneously, then control capability is improved, but difficulty of detecting and measuring zero input positions increases
Solution Approach 1:
The control device is segmented into multiple independent control members, each capable of movement in multiple degrees of freedom. Each control member has its own independent zero input position detection mechanism, allowing simultaneous control of multiple degrees of freedom while maintaining clear detection of zero positions for each axis
Solution Approach 2:
Mechanical detents are introduced as intermediary elements between the control members and the user. These detents provide tactile feedback at zero input positions, serving as a mediator that communicates the zero position state to the user through mechanical engagement and disengagement
2Ease of operation
If tactile feedback is provided for zero command positions, then ease of operation is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The mechanical detent system is designed to be self-service, where the detents automatically engage and disengage based on the position of the control members. The system uses the existing mechanical structure of the control members themselves to provide tactile feedback, rather than requiring separate active feedback mechanisms for each degree of freedom
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces complex electronic feedback systems with a purely mechanical detent-based tactile feedback system. This substitution simplifies the overall device architecture by using mechanical engagement to provide zero position indication, eliminating the need for sensors, processors, and power consumption associated with electronic feedback
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 provides users with intuitive and precise control over virtual or real targets by clearly indicating zero input positions, enhancing mobility and control precision in complex environments like drone flight and virtual/augmented reality systems.
Implementation Method 1
tactile feedback, enabling users to discern zero command positions through mechanical detents or magnetic feedback
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.