Haptic Transducer Lateral Motion Control via Razorback Spider

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing haptic transducers are not compact enough to be portable and are susceptible to damage from mechanical shocks, lacking effective lateral motion control, which limits their use in virtual reality and audio-visual scenarios.

Innovation Solution

A compact haptic transducer design with a floating motor and coil, a 'razorback' spider for stress distribution, and a fastener system to manage lateral motion, allowing for durable and efficient haptic feedback in footwear.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a second spring element is added to control lateral motion of the motor, then lateral motion control is improved, but device size increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvelateral motion controlVSAvoidtransducer size

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSVolume of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines the lateral motion control function with the existing suspension spider by modifying its geometry to include lateral support surfaces. This integrates what would have been a separate lateral control mechanism into the existing suspension structure, providing both axial suspension and lateral confinement without adding separate components.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The suspension spider is designed to perform multiple functions: it provides axial suspension support for the motor while simultaneously providing lateral motion control through its side surfaces. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate lateral control elements, maintaining compact transducer dimensions.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Ease of operation

If the transducer is made compact for portability, then ease of operation is improved, but reliability under mechanical shock deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:

ImproveportabilityVSAvoidresistance to mechanical shock

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent designs the suspension spider with lateral support surfaces that act as preventive measures against shock damage. These surfaces are positioned to engage the motor during lateral excursions caused by mechanical shock, preventing the motor from crashing into the voice coil before damage can occur.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #11Beforehand cushioning (Prior cushioning)

Solution Approach 2:

The geometric features of the suspension spider create preliminary resistance to lateral motor motion before severe shock damage can occur. The lateral support surfaces provide early engagement to counteract lateral forces, preventing the harmful crash between motor and voice coil.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #9Preliminary anti-action

3Reliability

If magnetic fluid is added to provide hydraulic stiffness for lateral motion control, then lateral motion control is improved, but the stiffness is insufficient for heavy motors under mechanical shock

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvelateral motion controlVSAvoidhydraulic stiffness

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSForce

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the magnetic fluid hydraulic stiffness mechanism with a mechanical solution based on the geometric configuration of the suspension spider. The lateral support surfaces provide direct mechanical constraint and stiffness through solid contact, eliminating the need for magnetic fluid and providing sufficient stiffness for heavy motors under shock conditions.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

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 design provides robust and portable haptic feedback capable of withstanding mechanical shocks, enhancing the immersive experience in multimedia entertainment by synchronizing vibrations with audio-visual content.

Implementation Method 1

a voice coil (124) coupled to the motor and configured to receive electrical signals and generate a force to move the motor in response to the electrical signals

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElectromagnetic force: Lorentz Force

Implementation Method 2

a spider or spring element is coupled between the dome and the motor to control the motion of the motor

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Data Source

PatentUS11666942B2Haptic transducer and footplate coupled to the same

Publication Date: 2023.06.06 HAPTECH HOLDINGS INC

AI summary

A haptic transducer is provided, comprising a motor including a yoke, an inner cavity formed by the yoke, and a magnet assembly disposed within the inner cavity; a diaphragm disposed above the magnet assembly; a suspension extending concentrically around the diaphragm and having an inner edge attached to the diaphragm and an outer edge attached to the yoke; a cylindrical coil coupled to the diaphragm and suspended within the inner cavity around the magnet assembly; a first hole extending through the motor; and a second hole axially aligned with the first hole and extending through the diaphragm, a fastener extending through the first hole into the second hole. A footplate system is also provided, comprising a footplate configured for placement in a piece of footwear; a moving motor transducer configured to transfer haptic sensations to the footplate; and a top fastener configured to secure the haptic transducer to the footplate.