Haptic Mapping System for Realistic 3D Object Interaction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current visual objects in user interfaces, such as augmented reality and computer games, often lack realistic physical feedback, limiting the immersive experience due to insufficient haptic representation.
Innovation Solution
A haptic mapping system that records forces applied to three-dimensional objects and generates a digital electrical representation using a haptic user interface, combining this data with visual images to simulate realistic interaction, employing materials like electroactive polymers that change dimensions in response to external stimuli.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If visual objects are presented in user interfaces (augmented reality, computer games, interactive displays), then visual information is provided to users, but realistic physical feedback and haptic representation are limited or absent
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a digital electrical representation that copies the physical properties of real objects, including haptic characteristics such as texture, resistance, and compliance. This digital copy is then used to generate haptic feedback in virtual environments, allowing users to experience tactile sensations without physical contact with the actual object.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a haptic mapping system that acts as an intermediary between visual display and haptic feedback. This system maps visual object properties to corresponding haptic parameters, translating visual information into tactile sensations through electroactive polymer materials that respond to electrical signals.
2Reliability
If haptic user interface manipulates three-dimensional object to provide haptic mapping, then realistic haptic feedback is achieved, but device complexity increases due to force recording and digital representation generation
Solution Approach 1:
The haptic user interface is designed to perform multiple functions: it serves as both the manipulation interface and the haptic feedback device. The same interface that allows users to interact with three-dimensional objects also provides the haptic feedback, eliminating the need for separate sensing and actuation systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The system records forces automatically during object manipulation without requiring separate measurement devices. The haptic user interface itself generates the force data needed for creating the digital electrical representation, making the system self-sufficient and reducing overall complexity.
3Reliability
If electroactive polymer materials are used to change dimensions in response to external stimuli, then haptic representation is enhanced, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The electroactive polymer materials are activated periodically or on-demand based on user interaction with the three-dimensional object, rather than continuously. This allows the system to consume energy only when haptic feedback is needed, reducing overall energy consumption while maintaining accurate haptic representation during interaction.
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 realistic haptic feedback, allowing users to experience the resistance and texture of virtual objects, enhancing immersion in applications like video games, simulators, and virtual reality environments.
Implementation Method 1
logic, implemented at least partly in one or more of configurable or fixed-functionality hardware, to record forces from manipulation of a three-dimensional object by the haptic user interface
Implementation Method 2
employing materials like electroactive polymers that change dimensions in response to external stimuli
Data Source
AI summary
Systems, apparatuses, and methods may include recording forces from manipulation of a three-dimensional object by a haptic user interface and generating a digital electrical representation of the three-dimensional object from the recorded forces and from a visual representation of the three-dimensional object.