Haptic Actuator Mounting with Mechanical Air Gap Positioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for adjusting the air gap in haptic actuators are difficult to automate and require expensive, inaccurate measuring devices, leading to inconsistent haptic feedback.
Innovation Solution
A method involving a tool with a specific shape to mechanically position the haptic actuator components at a predetermined distance, allowing for automatic adjustment of the air gap by fixing the components to a support and touch surface.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If optical measuring devices (lasers) are used to measure the air gap distance, then measurement capability is provided, but the devices are expensive and require manual operation that is difficult to automate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces optical measuring devices with a purely mechanical positioning system. The tool incorporates a mechanical stop feature that physically limits the movement distance, ensuring the air gap is automatically set to the correct value without requiring optical measurement or manual adjustment. This mechanical approach enables full automation of the mounting process.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a specialized tool as an intermediary between the haptic actuator components. This tool includes a stop feature that acts as a mediator to automatically establish the correct air gap distance during assembly, eliminating the need for expensive measuring devices and enabling automated operation.
2Manufacturing precision
If iterative measurement and adjustment steps are used to set the air gap, then the desired distance can be achieved, but the process is time-consuming and difficult to automate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates the correct air gap distance into the tool design itself through a pre-configured stop feature. This preliminary action ensures that when the tool is used during assembly, the correct distance is automatically established in a single operation, eliminating the need for iterative measurement and adjustment steps, thereby significantly improving productivity while maintaining precision.
3Reliability
If manual adjustment of the air gap is performed, then the desired haptic feedback sensation can be achieved, but consistency between multiple actuators is difficult to guarantee
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal tool that can be used for all haptic actuator mounting operations. The tool incorporates a standardized stop feature that ensures the same air gap distance is achieved every time, regardless of which actuator is being assembled. This universal approach guarantees consistency across multiple actuators while keeping the tool design relatively simple.
4Measurement precision
If expensive measuring devices are used to achieve accurate air gap adjustment, then measurement capability is provided, but the cost increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces expensive, sophisticated optical measuring devices with a simple, inexpensive mechanical stop feature integrated into the assembly tool. This mechanical feature provides sufficient measurement precision for the air gap without requiring costly equipment, significantly reducing the overall manufacturing cost while maintaining the necessary accuracy.
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
Ensures consistent and repeatable haptic feedback by simplifying the air gap adjustment process, reducing the need for expensive equipment and improving accuracy.
Implementation Method 1
a body adapted to generate a magnetic field when the body is supplied with an electric current
Implementation Method 2
a part adapted to be attracted towards the body under the effect of the magnetic field
Data Source
Figure 1~2
AI summary
The invention relates to a method of mounting a haptic actuator (10) on a support (21) and on a touch surface (20) fixed to the support, the haptic actuator comprising: - a body (11) adapted to generate a magnetic field when the body is supplied with an electric current; - a part (12) adapted to be attracted towards the body under the effect of the magnetic field; - an extension (16) fixed to the body and extending in the direction of the part; the mounting method comprising the following steps: - holding the part by a tool (30) and moving the tool so as to bring the tool against the extension, the tool having a shape designed such that, when the tool (30) holds the part and the tool is against the extension, the part is located at a predetermined distance (D) from the body; - fixing the body to the touch surface; - fixing the part relative to the support when the tool is against the extension.