Haptic Switch Module Structure for Uniform Surface Vibration
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional surfaces used for haptic feedback experience uneven vibration, leading to uncomfortable feelings during manipulation due to the placement of actuators along the edges of the independent area, making it difficult to evenly vibrate the manipulation surface.
Innovation Solution
A switch module with a stationary member and a movable member separated by a gap, featuring a vibration element between them, which allows for even vibration of the manipulation surface by using a combination of a holder, dampers, and an actuator to generate vibrations that are not transmitted to the panel, ensuring stable and comfortable tactile feedback.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If actuators are placed along the edges of the independent area, then the device structure is simplified, but the vibration uniformity deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
A vibration element is introduced as an intermediary component between the actuator and the manipulation surface. This vibration element receives vibration from the actuator and distributes it uniformly across the manipulation surface, mediating the interaction to achieve even vibration without requiring complex actuator placement
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces direct mechanical coupling between the actuator and manipulation surface with a vibration element that converts actuator motion into uniform surface vibration. This substitution transforms the mechanical transmission mechanism to achieve better vibration distribution
2Device complexity
If the manipulation surface is placed close to the panel, then the device structure is compact, but vibration transmission to the panel increases
Solution Approach 1:
A holder is introduced as an intermediary structure that supports the manipulation surface at a distance from the panel. This holder acts as a mediator to prevent direct vibration transmission to the panel while maintaining structural compactness through integrated design
3Object-generated harmful factors
If the manipulation surface is separated from the panel with a gap, then vibration transmission to the panel is reduced, but the device structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The holder is designed to perform multiple functions: supporting the manipulation surface, maintaining the gap from the panel, and preventing vibration transmission. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components, thereby limiting the increase in structural complexity
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
The solution enables even vibration of the manipulation surface, reducing the likelihood of uncomfortable feelings during use and preventing vibration from propagating to the panel, thus enhancing the tactile experience and stability of the switch module.
Implementation Method 1
a vibration element disposed between the stationary member and the movable member, the vibration element vibrating the movable member
Implementation Method 2
a vibration element disposed between the stationary member and the movable member, the vibration element vibrating the movable member
Data Source
AI summary
A switch to be attached to a panel having an opening in a surface includes: a stationary member to be attached to the panel; a movable member to be placed at a distance from the panel, the movable member having a manipulation surface separated from the panel in the opening with a gap intervening between the manipulation surface and the panel, the manipulation surface being exposed from the opening; and a vibration element disposed between the stationary member and the movable member, the vibration element vibrating the movable member.