Haptic Strap Actuator for Directional Wearable Feedback
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Solution Overview
Problem
Wearable electronic devices with Eccentric Rotating Mass motors are limited in generating haptic effects that can be perceived when the device is not in direct contact with the skin, and they cannot convey directional information effectively.
Innovation Solution
A haptic-enabled strap system with an actuator connected to a wearable electronic device, where a processor sends signals to the actuator to move the strap relative to the device, providing non-vibration haptic effects through smart materials or motors, allowing for independent control of strap ends to convey directional information.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If a single ERM motor is used in the wearable device, then power consumption is low and high frequency vibrations are generated, but the ability to convey directional information through haptic sensation is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The haptic feedback system is segmented between the wearable device and the strap. The device contains the ERM motor for vibrations, while the strap contains separate actuators (motors or smart materials) that can be independently controlled to provide directional haptic effects. This segmentation allows the strap to convey directional information without requiring multiple complex actuators in the device itself.
Solution Approach 2:
The strap acts as an intermediary between the wearable device and the user's body. It receives signals from the device and translates them into various haptic effects through its own actuators, enabling the transmission of directional information and additional sensory input without adding complexity to the device core.
2Reliability
If the strap is loose, then the wearable device is comfortable to wear, but the user cannot perceive vibrations generated by the ERM
Solution Approach 1:
The strap incorporates actuators that can dynamically adjust its state between loose and tight. The actuators enable the strap to be loose during normal wear for comfort, then actively tighten and provide haptic feedback when needed, creating a dynamic adaptation to user needs without manual adjustment.
Solution Approach 2:
The strap system provides self-adjusting functionality through its actuators, which automatically tighten and engage with the user's body when haptic feedback is required, eliminating the need for manual tightening or complex user intervention to ensure proper contact for vibration perception.
3Reliability
If the strap is tightened to ensure skin contact for vibration perception, then haptic effects are delivered, but the comfort of wear is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The strap transitions from a static tight or loose state to a dynamic system that can adjust its tension in real-time. During normal wear, the strap remains loose for comfort. When haptic feedback is needed, the actuators actively tighten the strap to ensure skin contact, then can relax afterward, providing a dynamic solution that balances comfort and functionality.
4Loss of information
If traditional vibration-based haptic effects are used, then the ERM motor provides high frequency stimuli, but additional information cannot be conveyed through haptic sensation
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments haptic effect generation between two components: the ERM motor in the device for high-frequency vibrations, and separate actuators in the strap for directional and additional haptic effects. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function while working together to convey richer information with minimal additional power consumption.
Solution Approach 2:
The strap actuators serve multiple functions: they provide directional haptic feedback, convey additional information beyond simple vibrations, and can work in conjunction with the ERM motor to create complex haptic patterns. This multi-functionality enables enhanced information transmission without requiring a complete redesign of the haptic system.
Data Source
AI summary
A system includes a wearable electronic device and a strap operatively connected to the wearable electronic device. The strap is configured to allow a user to wear the wearable electronic device on a body part. The system also includes an actuator connected to the strap, and a processor in signal communication with the wearable electronic device and the actuator. The processor is configured to receive a first signal from the wearable electronic device and send a second signal, based on the first signal, to the actuator to cause the strap to move relative to the wearable electronic device and provide a haptic effect to the user.