Haptic Actuator Force Detection via Vibration Analysis
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing mobile devices face challenges in detecting force exertion effectively due to the need for expensive dedicated force sensors, which limits quick input responses, especially in scenarios like incoming calls where precise force application is required.
Innovation Solution
A handheld device system utilizing a haptic actuator, gyroscope, accelerometer, and processor to initiate vibrations and analyze signal data for force exertion states, enabling force detection without dedicated sensors and allowing for quick input responses across the entire device surface.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If dedicated force sensors are installed to detect force exertion, then force detection capability is improved, but device cost increases and input response time decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes existing device components (haptic actuator, gyroscope, accelerometer) perform the additional function of force detection. The haptic actuator serves dual purposes: providing haptic feedback and detecting force exertion through vibration analysis. The gyroscope and accelerometer, already present for motion sensing, are utilized to detect changes in vibration patterns that indicate force application. This self-service approach eliminates the need for dedicated force sensors while enabling quick force detection throughout the device.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements multi-functionality by enabling existing components to serve multiple purposes. The haptic actuator not only provides tactile feedback but also acts as a force sensor through vibration analysis. The gyroscope and accelerometer, originally for motion tracking, are repurposed to detect force-induced vibration changes. This universal utilization of components achieves force detection capability without adding dedicated sensors, reducing cost and improving response time.
2Measurement precision
If dedicated force sensors are installed to detect force exertion, then force detection capability is improved, but device cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes existing device components (haptic actuator, gyroscope, accelerometer) perform the additional function of force detection. The haptic actuator serves dual purposes: providing haptic feedback and detecting force exertion through vibration analysis. The gyroscope and accelerometer, already present for motion sensing, are utilized to detect changes in vibration patterns that indicate force application. This self-service approach eliminates the need for dedicated force sensors while enabling quick force detection throughout the device.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements multi-functionality by enabling existing components to serve multiple purposes. The haptic actuator not only provides tactile feedback but also acts as a force sensor through vibration analysis. The gyroscope and accelerometer, originally for motion tracking, are repurposed to detect force-induced vibration changes. This universal utilization of components achieves force detection capability without adding dedicated sensors, reducing cost and improving response time.
3Measurement precision
If force sensors are installed for specific portions of the device, then force detection is enabled, but the detection area is limited and response speed decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes existing device components (haptic actuator, gyroscope, accelerometer) perform the additional function of force detection. The haptic actuator serves dual purposes: providing haptic feedback and detecting force exertion through vibration analysis. The gyroscope and accelerometer, already present for motion sensing, are utilized to detect changes in vibration patterns that indicate force application. This self-service approach eliminates the need for dedicated force sensors while enabling quick force detection throughout the device.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes mechanical vibration as the basis for force detection. A vibration signal is generated (either through the haptic actuator or natural device vibration), and when force is applied to any portion of the device, it dampens or alters the vibration pattern. The gyroscope and accelerometer detect these vibration changes to determine force exertion. This vibration-based approach enables force detection across the entire device surface rather than at specific sensor locations, expanding the detection area while maintaining quick response capability.
Data Source
AI summary
Methods and systems are provided for sensing force exertion on mobile handheld devices for behavior setting and input for quick response. A method is provided comprising: applying a waveform drive to a haptic actuator to initiate a vibration of the handheld device; receiving signal data from one or more sensors during the vibration; determining a force exertion state of the handheld device based on an analysis of the signal data; and performing an action on the handheld device based on the force exertion state. The action may modify an operating mode for behavior setting of the handheld device, or enable the user to provide a quick response to carry out a desired action.