Haptic Feedback Apparatus for Stylus and Finger Differentiation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current handwriting input methods on electronic devices, such as tablets and smartphones, cannot differentiate feedback effects based on the type of operating object used, whether it's a finger or a stylus, leading to an unrealistic writing experience.

Innovation Solution

A haptic feedback method that determines a feedback parameter for a force feedback unit based on the type of operating object, allowing for distinct feedback effects when using different objects, such as a pencil or a stylus, by obtaining and processing identification information and pressure data to simulate the feel of writing on real paper.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of manufacture

If the same feedback effect is given regardless of the operating object type, then the system is simple to implement, but the user experience lacks realism and differentiation

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveimplementation simplicityVSAvoidfeedback differentiation capability
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The haptic feedback system dynamically adjusts feedback parameters based on the detected operating object type. The system transitions from a static, uniform feedback approach to a dynamic, adaptive approach where feedback characteristics change according to whether a finger or stylus is detected, enabling realistic differentiation while maintaining a unified system architecture

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The system changes haptic feedback parameters such as vibration frequency, amplitude, and pattern based on the identified operating object type. By modifying these parameters dynamically, the system provides distinct feedback experiences for different input methods without requiring separate hardware systems

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Ease of manufacture

If the touch input unit material differs from real paper, then the device is easier to manufacture and maintain, but it cannot achieve the effect of real writing on paper

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedevice manufacturing easeVSAvoidwriting realism
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The system introduces haptic feedback as a sensory feedback mechanism that compensates for the lack of physical paper characteristics. By providing tactile feedback through vibration and resistance simulation, the system creates a feedback loop that enhances the perception of writing on paper, making the electronic experience more reliable and realistic

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces the mechanical friction and resistance of real paper with electronically controlled haptic feedback mechanisms. Instead of relying on physical material properties, the system uses motor-driven vibration and force feedback to simulate the tactile sensations of writing on different paper types

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

3Adaptability or versatility

If haptic feedback differentiation is implemented for different operating objects, then the user experience is enhanced, but the system complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefeedback effect differentiationVSAvoidsystem complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The touch input unit serves multiple functions: it detects touch position, determines operating object type through capacitance characteristics, and triggers appropriate haptic feedback responses. This multi-functionality is achieved within a single integrated system, avoiding the need for separate detection and feedback systems

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

Data Source

PatentUS9329686B2Haptic feedback method, haptic feedback apparatus, electronic device and stylus
Publication Date: 2016.05.03 LENOVO (BEIJING) LTD
  • US9329686B2 patent drawing
  • US9329686B2 patent drawing
  • US9329686B2 patent drawing

AI summary

The present invention discloses a haptic feedback method, a haptic feedback apparatus, an electronic device and a stylus The haptic feedback method applicable to an electronic device including a touch input unit includes: when an operation is performed on the touch input unit by an operating object, obtaining a first parameter indicating the type of the operating object; determining a feedback parameter of a force feedback unit at least based on the first parameter, wherein the force feedback unit is arranged on the touch input unit or the operating object; and controlling the force feedback unit based on the feedback parameter to generate and output to a user a feedback force corresponding to the type of the operating object.