Haptic Actuator Ferromagnetic Mass Tuning for Q Factor Optimization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Haptic actuators face issues with friction caused by misalignments and non-uniformity of magnetic forces, leading to increased failure rates and performance degradation, making it challenging to maintain optimal Q factor post-assembly.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus for tuning haptic actuators by determining and adjusting the ferromagnetic mass within the housing or field member to achieve a desired Q factor, using sensors and a controller to add or remove ferromagnetic mass, either through adding ferromagnetic bodies or laser ablating existing material, to balance forces and reduce friction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the haptic actuator uses fixed ferromagnetic mass during assembly, then the manufacturing process is simple, but the Q factor cannot be optimized after assembly due to friction from misalignments
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by making the ferromagnetic mass adjustable rather than fixed. The housing includes a cavity that can accommodate variable ferromagnetic mass, allowing the system to adapt its magnetic properties after assembly. This enables optimization of the Q factor by tuning the ferromagnetic mass to compensate for misalignments and non-uniformities, while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure.
2Reliability
If the ferromagnetic mass is increased to compensate for misalignments, then friction is reduced, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the ferromagnetic mass into separate adjustable components rather than using a single fixed mass. The housing cavity can accommodate variable ferromagnetic mass that can be positioned and adjusted independently, allowing friction compensation without requiring complex integrated structures. This segmented approach simplifies the tuning process while achieving the desired friction reduction.
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 adjustment of ferromagnetic mass allows for a significant reduction in friction forces, improving the haptic actuator's Q factor, reducing failure rates and maintaining performance by balancing magnetic forces and compensating for misalignments, resulting in improved haptic feedback quality.
Implementation Method 1
a field member movable within the housing responsive to the at least one coil
Implementation Method 2
Removing ferromagnetic mass from the housing may include laser ablating ferromagnetic mass from the housing
Data Source
AI summary
A method of tuning a haptic actuator that includes a housing having an initial ferromagnetic mass, at least one coil carried by the housing, and a field member movable within the housing responsive to the at least one coil, wherein the haptic actuator operative as a resonator and has an initial quality (Q) factor, may include measuring the initial Q factor of the haptic actuator. The method may include determining a desired ferromagnetic mass for the housing to tune the initial Q factor to a desired Q factor. The method may also include changing the initial ferromagnetic mass of the housing to the desired ferromagnetic mass. Another embodiment changes the ferromagnetic mass of the field member.