Haptic Controller Mode Transition via Lead-In and Brake Pulses

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing haptic devices with multiple operational modes face challenges in seamlessly transitioning between low-frequency and high-frequency operational modes, resulting in discontinuous haptic feedback experiences.

Innovation Solution

A system and method that utilize a controller to combine control schemes associated with different operational modes, applying voltage pulses to enhance response time and facilitate smooth transitions between modes, including the use of a lead-in pulse for quicker startup and a brake pulse for faster termination of haptic effects.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a haptic device operates in multiple operational modes with different frequency ranges, then the versatility and adaptability of the device is improved, but the complexity of controlling seamless transitions between modes increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvemulti-mode operational capabilityVSAvoidcontrol scheme complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The controller dynamically selects and transitions between different control schemes based on the desired operational mode. The system adjusts control parameters in real-time to facilitate smooth transitions between low-frequency and high-frequency modes, making the complexity adaptive rather than static.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

A single unified controller handles multiple operational modes (low-frequency, high-frequency, and transitional modes) through a multi-mode control scheme. This universal controller integrates the functionality of what would otherwise require separate control systems for each mode.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Adaptability or versatility

If the haptic device transitions between low-frequency and high-frequency operational modes, then the adaptability is improved, but the continuity of haptic feedback deteriorates due to discontinuous transitions

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvefrequency range adaptabilityVSAvoidcontinuity of haptic feedback

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSStability of the object's composition

Solution Approach 1:

A transitional mode is introduced as an intermediary state between low-frequency and high-frequency operational modes. This intermediate mode with transitional frequency range acts as a bridge, enabling smooth and continuous transitions that maintain haptic feedback continuity while changing operational modes.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The control system ensures continuous haptic feedback by maintaining active control during mode transitions. The multi-mode control scheme continuously adjusts parameters to prevent interruptions or discontinuities in the haptic feedback experience during transitions between different frequency ranges.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #20Continuity of useful action

3Force

If steady-state power is provided to achieve desired haptic sensation threshold, then the haptic effect magnitude is improved, but the response time deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvehaptic effect magnitudeVSAvoidresponse time

Core Design Contradiction:

ForceVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

A lead-in voltage pulse is applied before the main steady-state power to pre-activate the haptic device. This preliminary action prepares the device for quicker response by initiating the haptic effect generation process in advance, reducing the overall response time while maintaining the desired haptic effect magnitude.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

Voltage pulses are used instead of continuous steady-state power for activating haptic effects. The pulsed action with appropriate timing and duration achieves the desired haptic sensation threshold while reducing the overall time required compared to waiting for steady-state conditions to develop.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #19Periodic action

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 solution enables seamless blending of haptic feedback across frequency ranges, reducing response time and improving the overall haptic experience by ensuring consistent and efficient transitions between low-frequency, transitional, and high-frequency operational modes.

Implementation Method 1

A voltage pulse, which is configured to change the haptic sensation output by the haptic device by a pre-determined amount within a pre-determined, reduced response time, is applied to the haptic device

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElectromagnetic induction: Electromagnetic Induction

Data Source

PatentUS7742036B2System and method for controlling haptic devices having multiple operational modes

Publication Date: 2010.06.22 IMMERSION CORP

AI summary

A haptic device having a plurality of operational modes, including a first operational mode and a second operational mode is provided. The first operational mode is associated with a frequency range. The second operational mode is associated with a frequency range that is different from the frequency range of the first operational mode. A controller is coupled to the haptic device, and is configured to send the haptic device a plurality of control schemes. Each control scheme is uniquely associated with an operational mode from the plurality of operational modes.