Haptic Actuator Field Member and Flexure Layout for Precise Force Feedback
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing haptic technologies face challenges in providing effective tactile feedback with sufficient force and precision, limiting their ability to convey complex information to users.
Innovation Solution
A haptic actuator design featuring a housing with a stator and a field member, including permanent magnets arranged in a specific magnetic pole configuration, and flexures allowing reciprocal movement within the housing, enabling precise control of tactile feedback.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Force
If existing haptic technologies are used, then the device structure is simple, but the force characteristics and precision are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The haptic actuator is divided into distinct functional segments: a stator with coil assemblies, a field member with permanent magnets, and flexure assemblies. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently for its specific function while contributing to overall force characteristics and precision.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple coil assemblies are combined within the stator structure, and permanent magnets are integrated into the field member with specific pole configurations. This merging of multiple magnetic and electromagnetic elements creates enhanced force characteristics that would not be achievable with simpler designs.
2Manufacturing precision
If existing haptic technologies are used, then the manufacturing process is simple, but the precision of tactile feedback is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The permanent magnets are configured with specific local pole arrangements (alternating poles, Halbach arrays) in different regions of the field member. This local quality variation enables precise control of magnetic field distribution, which directly improves the precision of tactile feedback.
Solution Approach 2:
The flexure assemblies provide dynamic, compliant connections between the field member and housing, allowing the system to adapt to varying operational conditions. This dynamic capability enhances precision by enabling fine adjustments in the haptic response.
3Adaptability or versatility
If existing haptic technologies are used, then the device is easy to operate, but the ability to convey complex information is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The coil assemblies are configured to generate periodic electromagnetic forces that interact with the permanent magnets, creating controlled oscillations and vibrations. This periodic action enables the conveyance of complex information through varied vibration patterns while maintaining ease of operation through automated control.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates feedback mechanisms that monitor the position and movement of the field member, allowing the controller to adjust operating parameters in real-time. This feedback enables versatile information conveyance through differentiated haptic responses while maintaining ease of operation.
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 haptic actuator achieves enhanced tactile feedback with improved force characteristics and precision, allowing for the effective conveyance of complex information to users.
Implementation Method 1
The stator may include a core and a plurality of serially coupled coils surrounding the core. The at least one permanent magnet may include a first permanent magnet on a first side of the opening, and a second permanent magnet on a second side of the opening opposite the first side of the opening
Implementation Method 2
The haptic actuator may also include a Hall effect sensor carried by the housing and configured to sense a position of the field member
Implementation Method 3
The haptic actuator may also include a ferritic body between the at least one permanent magnet and the frame
Data Source
AI summary
A haptic actuator may include a housing, and a stator fixed to a medial interior portion of the housing. The haptic actuator may also include a field member having an opening receiving the stator therein. The field member may include a frame and at least one permanent magnet carried by the frame. The haptic actuator may also include at least one flexure coupled between an end of the frame and adjacent interior portions of the housing to permit reciprocal movement of the field member within the housing responsive to the stator.