Networked Haptic Device Pin Actuation and Distributed Force Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional haptic devices are limited in their ability to operate remotely and respond effectively to each other due to the constraints of shared motor mechanisms, restricting their distance and coordination capabilities.
Innovation Solution
A motorized device with a structural support for pins, where motors are selectively coupled to the pins via actuators, allowing for extension, retraction, or holding under processor control, enabling remote and distributed force management through a network connection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of moving object
If conventional haptic devices use shared motor mechanisms, then device complexity is reduced, but the distance between devices and their coordination capability are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the haptic system into independent modular units, each with its own motor mechanism and control processor. This segmentation allows multiple devices to operate independently at remote distances while maintaining coordination through network communication, resolving the contradiction between distance capability and device complexity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple haptic devices operate independently with separate motor mechanisms, then remote operation and coordination capability are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Each haptic device is designed as a universal module capable of independent operation and networked coordination. The standardized interface and communication protocol allow the same device architecture to function both independently and in coordinated groups, improving adaptability without proportionally increasing complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback mechanisms where each device reports its state and receives coordination commands from other devices via network communication. This feedback loop enables sophisticated coordination between multiple devices while maintaining relatively simple individual device designs.
3Adaptability or versatility
If haptic devices are connected remotely over a network, then coordination flexibility is improved, but response time and control precision may deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The system establishes network connections and synchronization protocols in advance before haptic coordination is needed. This preliminary setup ensures that when coordination is required, devices can respond quickly without the overhead of establishing connections or negotiating protocols in real-time.
Data Source
AI summary
A haptic device operated alone or interacts with other physical or virtual devices of similar design that enable users to remotely image, analyze, or manipulate objects, either manually and or with the assistance of computer programs. The device extends and retracts “pins” in reaction to messages from a processor, and to external pressure applied to the pins' topical surface. A support structure provides a constant geometric plane. An operating system is provided that is capable of interaction for any one of a collection of devices of varying size and function. Multiple devices that are paired or otherwise positioned relative to one another, or scaled in size relative to one another, can be controlled to operate in cooperation with one another.