Haptic Feedback Braking Using Back-EMF Window Timing

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing haptic feedback devices face challenges in efficiently controlling the braking of haptic feedback components, leading to prolonged haptic feedback after the input signal is removed, which affects the crispness and resource efficiency of the haptic experience.

Innovation Solution

A method involving a controller that obtains a back electromotive force (BEMF) signal from a haptic feedback component, determines the time length for the BEMF signal to cross an amplitude-based window, and calculates a braking amplitude for a control signal to reduce the energy level of the haptic feedback component, thereby controlling the braking process.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Duration of action of moving object

If traditional active braking methods are used, then the haptic feedback component stops quickly, but hardware and computing resources are excessively consumed

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveduration of haptic feedbackVSAvoidhardware and computing resources
Core Design Contradiction:
Duration of action of moving objectVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent changes the parameter being measured from raw BEMF amplitude to the time length for BEMF to cross an amplitude-based window. This parameter transformation enables more efficient braking control that reduces resource consumption while achieving the desired duration control of haptic feedback.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces complex active braking control mechanisms with a simpler time-based measurement approach. By measuring the time length for BEMF to cross a threshold window and using this to determine braking amplitude, the system achieves effective braking with reduced computational and hardware resources compared to traditional active braking methods.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Use of energy by moving object

If the haptic feedback component continues to move after input signal removal, then resource consumption is reduced, but the haptic feedback duration is prolonged affecting crispness

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvehardware and computing resourcesVSAvoidduration of haptic feedback
Core Design Contradiction:
Use of energy by moving objectVSDuration of action of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent uses BEMF feedback to determine when to apply braking. By continuously monitoring the BEMF signal generated by the moving haptic feedback component and measuring the time length for it to cross an amplitude-based window, the system applies braking at the optimal moment to achieve crisp stoppage while minimizing unnecessary resource consumption.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements dynamic braking control where the braking amplitude is determined based on real-time measurement of the BEMF signal characteristics. The system adapts the braking force dynamically by using the measured time length to set appropriate braking amplitude, ensuring crisp haptic feedback duration control without excessive resource usage.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

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 approach reduces the duration of haptic feedback after the input signal is removed, enhancing the crispness of the haptic sensation while minimizing the hardware and computing resources required, compared to traditional active braking methods.

Implementation Method 1

obtaining, by a controller, a back electromotive force (BEMF) signal associated with a haptic feedback component, wherein the BEMF signal is generated by movement of the haptic feedback component

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectBack electromotive force (BEMF): Electromagnetic Induction

Data Source

PatentUS12242671B2Braking control of haptic feedback device
Publication Date: 2025.03.04 QUALCOMM INC
  • US12242671B2 patent drawing
  • US12242671B2 patent drawing
  • US12242671B2 patent drawing

AI summary

In some aspects, a controller may obtain a back electromotive force (BEMF) signal associated with a haptic feedback component, wherein the BEMF signal is generated by movement of the haptic feedback component. The controller may determine a time length for the BEMF signal to cross an amplitude-based window. The controller may determine, based on the time length, a braking amplitude for a control signal to reduce an energy level of the haptic feedback component. The controller may control the control signal according to the braking amplitude. Numerous other aspects are provided.