Haptic feedback device and method of use thereof
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional haptic feedback devices for simulator cockpits and gaming chairs are bulky and uncomfortable, leading to user discomfort and frequent removal, detracting from the simulated racing experience.
Innovation Solution
A haptic feedback device with a planar body that rests on the chair's backrest, featuring electric actuator assemblies with enlarged flange portions for enhanced comfort and signal transmission, and a controller for signal control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional haptic feedback devices are used to provide haptic signals, then haptic feedback function is achieved, but the devices are bulky and uncomfortable leading to user discomfort
Solution Approach 1:
The haptic feedback device is divided into multiple independent actuator assemblies distributed across the planar body. Each actuator assembly can be independently controlled to provide localized haptic feedback, allowing the system to achieve comprehensive haptic coverage while maintaining a flat, comfortable profile that distributes pressure evenly across the user's contact area.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional bulky mechanical haptic mechanisms with electric actuator assemblies that can be embedded within a thin planar body. This substitution enables haptic feedback functionality while maintaining a sleek, comfortable design that does not compromise user comfort or create bulkiness.
2Reliability
If haptic feedback devices are mounted on chair backrest to interface occupant engagement, then haptic signals can be generated, but the devices become bulky and uncomfortable particularly when occupant is resting against backrest
Solution Approach 1:
The haptic feedback device utilizes a thin planar body that can be mounted on the chair backrest without creating bulkiness. This thin-film approach allows the device to conform to the backrest surface and maintain comfort during prolonged use while still effectively transmitting haptic signals to the occupant through the planar body's contact area.
3Reliability
If electric actuator assemblies are embedded in planar body, then haptic signals can be transmitted effectively, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple actuator assemblies are embedded within a single planar body structure, merging the haptic generation function with the structural support function. This integration allows effective haptic signal transmission across multiple contact points while presenting a unified, simple external form that does not increase perceived device complexity.
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 device provides enhanced gaming and simulated racing experiences without discomfort, offering prolonged use and superior haptic signal transmission through its ergonomic design.
Implementation Method 1
each assembly of said plurality including an electric actuator, an actuator housing and an enlarged flange portion located on a front side of the actuator housing facing the front surface of the planar body for facilitating transfer of the haptic signal to the occupant via the front surface
Data Source
AI summary
A haptic feedback device and method of use are provided for use with a chair for generating a haptic signal in response to a wired or wireless electrical signal input. The device includes: a planar body including a front surface and an opposed rear surface, said body configured to rest on at least a backrest of the chair and interface an engagement between the chair and an occupant; a plurality of electric actuator assemblies embedded in, and arranged across and along, the planar body and configured to translate the electric signal input into the haptic signal, each assembly of said plurality including an electric actuator, an actuator housing and an enlarged flange portion located on a front side of the actuator housing facing the front surface of the planar body for facilitating transfer of the haptic signal to the occupant via the front surface; and a controller operatively associated with the plurality of electric actuator assemblies for control of the haptic signal generated in response to the wired or wireless electrical signal input.