Haptic System for Firearm Simulator Using Modular Actuators

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current firearm training methods lack realistic simulation of recoil and operational feedback, limiting the effectiveness of training exercises.

Innovation Solution

A haptic effect system is integrated into actual firearms, utilizing elements like linear motors, piezoelectric actuators, and sensors to simulate recoil, trigger pull, and various operational conditions, allowing for realistic tactile feedback during simulated firing and training.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a haptic effect system is integrated into an actual firearm to simulate recoil and operational feedback, then training effectiveness and realism are improved, but device complexity and installation difficulty increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetraining effectivenessVSAvoidsystem complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The haptic effect system merges multiple components (linear motor, controller module, power supply, sensors) into an integrated assembly that fits within the existing firearm structure. The system combines haptic feedback generation, control processing, and power management into a unified device that replaces or supplements traditional firearm components, thereby improving training effectiveness while managing complexity through integration.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The haptic effect system serves multiple functions: generating recoil feedback, simulating trigger pull resistance, providing operational haptic cues, and enabling training scenarios. This multi-functionality allows a single integrated system to address various training requirements simultaneously, improving overall training effectiveness without proportionally increasing complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Force

If haptic effect elements are installed within the firearm to occupy space, then realistic haptic feedback is achieved, but ease of installation and restoration are worsened

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvehaptic feedback realismVSAvoidinstallation ease
Core Design Contradiction:
ForceVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The haptic effect system is divided into separate modular components: a haptic effect generator, a controller module, a power supply, and sensors. Each module can be independently installed, tested, and removed. This segmentation allows the system to generate realistic haptic feedback through precise component placement while maintaining ease of installation and restoration by enabling modular assembly and disassembly without permanent modification to the firearm.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The system uses intermediary components such as mounting brackets, electrical connectors, and interface adapters that facilitate easy installation of the haptic elements within the firearm structure. These intermediaries enable the haptic components to be securely positioned and electrically connected without permanently altering the firearm, allowing for straightforward installation and restoration.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Ease of repair

If the haptic effect system is designed to be easily uninstalled, then ease of restoration is improved, but may compromise the integration quality and haptic effect performance

Engineering Contradiction:
Improverestoration easeVSAvoidintegration quality
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of repairVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The system employs segmented modular design with standardized interfaces and mounting mechanisms that enable easy removal while maintaining precise integration during operation. Each haptic component is designed as a self-contained module with defined mounting points and electrical connections, allowing for tool-free or minimal-tool installation and removal while ensuring precise positioning and optimal haptic performance during use.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

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 system provides a high degree of realism, enabling users to experience simulated recoil and operational conditions similar to actual firearm use, enhancing training effectiveness and safety.

Implementation Method 1

A linear motor can be used to generate forces that simulate recoil

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic force: Lorentz Force

Implementation Method 2

piezoelectric actuators, and sensors to simulate recoil, trigger pull, and various operational conditions

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectPiezoelectric effect: Piezoelectric Effect

Data Source

PatentUS20240247904A1Haptic system for a firearm simulator
Publication Date: 2024.07.25 HAPTECH INC
  • US20240247904A1 patent drawing
  • US20240247904A1 patent drawing
  • US20240247904A1 patent drawing

AI summary

A haptic effect system for generating haptic effects includes components that are configured to be mounted to an actual firearm. Elements of the haptic effect system are configured to occupy at least a part of the space that would otherwise be occupied by elements of the actual firearm. The haptic effect system converts an actual firearm capable of firing live ammunition into a firearm simulator. The haptic effect system generates haptic effects that cause a user holding the firearm to feel forces that mimic or simulate what a user would feel when performing various actions with the firearm. In some instances, an adaptor plate is used to secure the haptic effect system to the body of the actual firearm.