Haptic Driver Frequency Modulation for Low-Frequency Effects
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Solution Overview
Problem
Gaming controllers face challenges in replicating low-frequency haptic effects using Linear Resonant Actuators (LRAs) or Voice Coil Motors (VCMs, as their frequency characteristics differ significantly from those of Eccentric Rotating-Mass Motors (ERMs), leading to inefficiency and potential damage from high power requirements.
Innovation Solution
A haptic driver is configured to generate a drive signal with a dominant frequency higher than the desired haptic effect, typically at or near the resonant frequency of the actuator, to emulate low-frequency haptic effects by using high-frequency impulses or amplitude modulation, with the user's skin acting as a low-pass filter to achieve the desired tactile experience.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If LRAs or VCMs are used to replace ERMs in gaming controllers, then power efficiency and precision are improved, but the ability to generate low-frequency haptic effects deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies periodic action by using amplitude modulation of the high-frequency drive signal at the desired low frequency, or by using pulsed drive signals with appropriate timing, to generate low-frequency haptic effects from high-frequency actuators without requiring the actuator to physically operate at low frequencies
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the parameter of drive signal frequency from the actuator's resonant frequency to a modulated frequency or pulsed pattern that emulates low-frequency effects, allowing the same actuator to produce different perceptible frequencies through signal processing
2Strength
If high power is applied to generate low-frequency haptic effects with LRAs or VCMs, then the desired tactile experience is improved, but actuator damage and power consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
By using amplitude modulation or pulsed signals, the actuator operates continuously at its efficient resonant frequency while the perceived output frequency is determined by the modulation envelope or pulse timing, avoiding the need for high-power continuous operation at low frequencies
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces signal processing (amplitude modulation or pulsing) as an intermediary between the control system and the actuator, transforming the drive signal to achieve low-frequency effects without directly driving the actuator at low frequencies where it would require excessive power
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 enables efficient generation of low-frequency haptic effects with reduced power consumption and prevents damage to the actuator, effectively mimicking the desired tactile experience while optimizing power usage and actuator longevity.
Implementation Method 1
Linear resonant actuators (LRAs) are highly power efficient when operated in a narrow band at or near resonance
Implementation Method 2
with the user's skin acting as a low-pass filter to achieve the desired tactile experience
Data Source
AI summary
A gaming controller, comprising: a haptic actuator; and a haptic driver, wherein the haptic driver is configured to drive the haptic actuator with a drive signal having a dominant frequency F2, and to control how the drive signal is applied to the haptic actuator to generate a haptic effect that at least partly emulates a desired haptic effect having a dominant frequency F1, where F2>F1.