Haptic Controller with Elastomeric Abutment for Sound Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing haptic controllers, such as those used in electronic sound generation devices, struggle to provide fine control and are not suitable for modern instruments, particularly when interfacing with devices like MIDI sequencers or computer-assisted music software, due to their analog nature and complexity in implementation.
Innovation Solution
A haptic controller with a movable operating member, a mechanical connection using a deformable elastomeric abutment to provide a monotonous non-linear resistant force, and a sensor to generate a signal representative of the actuating force, which is processed to control sound characteristics like volume, distortion, or vibrato, allowing precise control and interfacing with modern devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If an analog haptic controller with a bag of conductive powder is used to control sound amplitude, then the relationship between effort applied and sound amplitude closely matches psycho-physiological perception, but the device becomes complex to implement and difficult to reproduce
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the complex mechanical analog system (bag of conductive powder) with a simplified mechanical system consisting of a deformable elastomeric abutment that provides non-linear resistant force, combined with a sensor and processing means to generate digital output signals. This substitution maintains the desired psycho-physiological perception while eliminating implementation complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the physical parameter of the abutment material to elastomeric material with specific durometer hardness (40 to 70 Shore A), and designs it to provide a monotonous non-linear resistant force. This parameter optimization achieves the desired force-displacement characteristics without requiring complex analog mechanisms.
2Device complexity
If a digital haptic controller with linear force response is used, then the device is simple to implement and reproduce, but the control precision and psycho-physiological perception match are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent optimizes the elastomeric abutment parameters (material composition, durometer hardness between 40-70 Shore A, geometry) to provide a non-linear resistant force that matches psycho-physiological perception. This allows digital implementation while maintaining high control precision through the non-linear force characteristics.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent incorporates a sensor that detects the actuating force or position and processing means that generates an output signal based on this detection. This feedback mechanism enables precise digital control while maintaining the non-linear force characteristics that match human perception.
3Ease of operation
If an analog haptic controller is used, then fine control of sound characteristics is achieved, but the controller is not suitable for interfacing with modern digital devices such as MIDI sequencers or computer-assisted music software
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a haptic controller that serves multiple functions: it provides fine control through non-linear resistant force like analog controllers, while also generating digital output signals that can interface with modern devices like MIDI sequencers and computer software. This multi-functionality resolves the contradiction between fine control and adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces processing means that act as an intermediary between the mechanical deformable abutment and digital devices. This intermediary converts the mechanical deformation into digital signals, enabling compatibility with modern digital devices while preserving the fine control capabilities of the mechanical system.
4Measurement precision
If a deformable elastomeric abutment with non-linear resistant force is used, then precise control matching physiological perception is achieved, but the manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent specifies a range for the durometer hardness (40 to 70 Shore A) rather than a single precise value, and provides guidance on abutment geometry (height 2-10mm, base area 10-50mm²). These parameter ranges allow manufacturing tolerance while maintaining the non-linear force characteristics needed for precise control.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses elastomeric material that can be manufactured using simple molding processes, replacing complex precision-machined components. This material choice reduces manufacturing precision requirements while maintaining the desired mechanical properties for precise control.
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 controller offers intuitive and precise control of sound characteristics, replicating the physiological perception of the user, enabling fine control of sound dynamics and compatibility with modern music software and devices.
Implementation Method 1
mechanical connection means comprising at least one deformable abutment made of elastomeric material arranged between the maneuvering member and the base and adapted to exert a monotonous non-linear resistant force against an actuating force of the maneuvering member
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a haptic controller comprising a base (2), at least one manoeuvering body (8) which is movably mounted on the base such that it can be moved under the action of a user, mechanical connection means (4, 15) comprising at least one deformable abutment consisting of an elastomer material between the manoeuvering body and the base, and suitable for exerting a monotonous, non-linear resistive effort against an actuating effort of the manoeuvering body, at least one sensor (12) placed in the haptic controller in such a way as to generate a signal representative of said actuating effort, and associated built-in or remote means (18) for processing the signal generated by the sensor, in order to supply an output signal for controlling at least one characteristic of a sound.