Haptic Feedback Module for Mobile Devices in Vehicles
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Solution Overview
Problem
Mobile devices lack effective haptic feedback systems adapted for automobile use, which are essential for ensuring user safety during driving, especially at night or when performing blind operations, as existing devices either lack haptic feedback or generate feedback that is too weak to be felt while driving.
Innovation Solution
A haptic feedback module integrated into an automobile vehicle for mobile devices, featuring a support with at least one actuator that transmits movement to the device, ensuring intense feedback is felt during driving, and can include features like a detachable adaptor receptacle, protective cover with touch-sensitive surface, and connection to the vehicle's electrical power for recharging.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If mobile devices are equipped with haptic feedback systems, then user feedback is provided, but the feedback is too weak to be felt during driving
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary mechanical transmission system consisting of a support structure with actuators that couple the mobile device to the vehicle's vibration isolation system. This intermediary mechanism amplifies and transmits haptic feedback forces from the mobile device through the support structure to the user's hand, making weak haptic signals from the mobile device perceptible during driving conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a vibration isolation system that uses counteracting forces to stabilize the mobile device during vehicle motion. The system generates counter-vibrations that compensate for vehicle vibrations, creating a stable platform that enhances the user's ability to perceive haptic feedback while reducing the impact of external disturbances.
2Ease of operation
If the user holds the mobile device in hand, then haptic feedback can be felt, but the user cannot remain concentrated on the road
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the mobile device with the vehicle's existing vibration isolation system and support structure. By integrating the mobile device into the vehicle's mechanical framework rather than having the user hold it separately, the system provides haptic feedback through the combined structure, allowing the user to place the device in a convenient position while maintaining road focus.
Solution Approach 2:
The support structure acts as an intermediary that transfers haptic feedback forces from the mobile device to the user's hand through the vehicle's mechanical system. This intermediary mechanism eliminates the need for the user to actively hold the device while still providing tactile feedback, as the support structure maintains contact and transmits vibrations passively.
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 feedback module provides a sufficiently intense and adapted feedback to the user, enhancing safety and comfort by confirming command inputs on a touch-sensitive surface without requiring the user to hold the device, ensuring they remain focused on the road.
Implementation Method 1
at least one actuator configured for transmitting a movement to said mobile device
Implementation Method 2
a means for holding by deformation of a portion displaced by the change of state of a magneto-rheological material carried by the support
Implementation Method 3
a means for holding by cooperation of surfaces with opposing magnetic polarity respectively carried by the support and by said mobile device
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a haptic feedback module to be built into a motor vehicle for a mobile device (3) having touch-sensitive surface (3a), characterized in that said haptic feedback module comprises at least one actuator (17) configured to transmit a movement to said mobile device (3). The invention also relates to a control device for a motor vehicle which includes such a haptic feedback module.