Haptic System With Imbalanced Masses For Independent Frequency Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current haptic systems, such as those using linear resonant actuators (LRAs) and eccentric rotating mass vibration motors (ERMs), are limited in variability and sophistication, unable to independently vary frequency and amplitude, and often fail to provide clear feedback in silent or low-volume conditions.
Innovation Solution
A haptic system utilizing imbalanced moving masses to generate haptic signals, allowing for independent variation of frequency, amplitude, and duration, and capable of producing both haptic and audio signals by using speaker diaphragms to create net forces and sound waves, respectively.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If linear resonant actuators (LRAs) are used to generate haptic signals, then the device can be made compact and respond quickly, but the system is limited to generating signals only at resonance frequency
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments the haptic signal generation into multiple independent drive units, each capable of operating at different frequencies. By using multiple drive units with imbalanced masses arranged at different angular positions, the system can generate haptic signals across a wider frequency range while maintaining compact size and fast response.
Solution Approach 2:
The drive units are designed to serve multiple functions: they can generate haptic signals independently, work in combination to expand frequency range, and be controlled to provide both sinusoidal and non-sinusoidal waveforms. This multi-functionality resolves the contradiction between compact design and frequency versatility.
2Adaptability or versatility
If eccentric rotating mass vibration motors (ERMs) are used to provide haptic signals at a wider range of frequencies, then frequency versatility is improved, but the system becomes less responsive and cannot vary amplitude independently of frequency
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses dynamically controllable drive units where the amplitude and frequency can be independently adjusted through electronic control. The imbalanced masses are arranged to allow dynamic variation of both amplitude and frequency without mechanical coupling constraints, enabling fast response while maintaining frequency versatility.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes operational parameters by controlling the drive units to operate at different amplitudes and frequencies independently. By using multiple drive units with controllable excitation signals, the system can vary amplitude without being constrained by frequency changes, resolving the limitation of ERM motors.
3Device complexity
If traditional haptic systems are used, then the structure is simple, but the system cannot provide clear feedback in silent or low-volume conditions and lacks sophistication
Solution Approach 1:
The system combines multiple drive units with imbalanced masses in a composite configuration, where each unit contributes to the overall haptic output. This composite structure provides robust and clear haptic feedback across various volume conditions by leveraging the combined output of multiple sources, improving reliability without excessive complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates controlled feedback mechanisms where the haptic output is dynamically adjusted based on operational conditions. The multiple drive units provide redundant and reinforced feedback signals that remain clear even in silent or low-volume conditions, enhancing reliability while maintaining manageable system complexity.
4Adaptability or versatility
If multiple drive units with imbalanced masses are used to enable independent variation of frequency and amplitude, then haptic variability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system merges multiple drive units into a unified haptic generation system where the units work cooperatively. By combining the output of multiple imbalanced mass drive units with synchronized control, the system achieves high haptic variability while managing complexity through integrated design and control strategies.
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
Enables a wide range of haptic feedback options, enhancing user interaction by providing distinct signals for different functions and allowing simultaneous audio and haptic output without sound interference, thus improving user interface differentiation and device compactness.
Implementation Method 1
A haptic system utilizes imbalanced moving masses to generate haptic signals
Implementation Method 2
each drive unit comprising a mass movable relative to the housing
Implementation Method 3
capable of producing both haptic and audio signals by using speaker diaphragms to create net forces and sound waves
Data Source
AI summary
There is provided a haptic system, comprising: a housing, two drive units coupled to the housing, each drive unit comprising a mass movable relative to the housing, and a controller configured to generate a haptic signal by causing at least one drive unit to exert a net force to be exerted on the housing. There is also provided a method for providing a haptic signal comprising: generating a first haptic signal, using a haptic system, after a first interaction with a user interface element; and generating a second haptic signal, using the haptic system, after a second interaction with the user interface element; wherein the second haptic signal is different from the first haptic signal; and wherein the first and second haptic signals are at least one of: associated with different functions of the user interface element; and associated with a parameter adjusted by the user interface element.