Rotary Knob Haptic Feedback via Eccentric Vibration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Users find it difficult to perceive transitions between different program parameters in retractable and rotary knobs used in household appliances, making their utilization challenging.
Innovation Solution
A household appliance design featuring a push-release mechanism with a heart-shaped channel, a pin, and a spring, along with a gear and L-shaped claws that create vibrations and noise when rotated, providing haptic and auditory feedback to indicate changes in program parameters, and a circuit board connected to a shaft for transmitting knob movements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a retractable and rotary knob is used in household appliances, then the appliance can be operated and programs can be adjusted, but the user cannot haptically perceive the transitions between different program parameters making utilization difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a vibration generation mechanism comprising an eccentric weight mounted on the rotary shaft. When the knob rotates, the eccentric weight generates periodic vibrations that are transmitted through the knob body. These vibrations provide tactile feedback to the user, enabling haptic perception of parameter transitions without requiring visual confirmation or complex mechanical detents.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the vibration generation mechanism converts rotational position changes into tactile vibrations. The control unit detects changes in program parameters and triggers corresponding vibration patterns, creating a closed-loop feedback system that informs the user of parameter transitions through haptic sensation rather than visual display alone.
2Loss of information
If a vibration generation mechanism is added to provide haptic feedback, then user perception of parameter transitions is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the vibration generation mechanism with the existing rotary knob structure. The eccentric weight is mounted directly on the rotary shaft, and the vibration mechanism shares the same housing and mounting structure as the rotary encoder, eliminating the need for separate vibration motors or additional mounting components.
Solution Approach 2:
The rotary shaft serves multiple functions: it acts as the rotational input shaft for parameter selection, the mounting axis for the eccentric weight, and the transmission path for vibrational energy. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated components and simplifies the overall mechanism.
3Loss of information
If an eccentric weight is mounted on the rotary shaft to generate vibrations, then haptic feedback is achieved, but the knob structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the knob assembly into distinct functional modules: the rotary shaft for parameter selection, the eccentric weight for vibration generation, and the housing for structural support. This modular segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently and simplifies assembly and maintenance.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs an eccentric weight with a curved or spherical profile that rotates along a circular path. This curved geometry naturally generates the periodic vibrations needed for haptic feedback while maintaining smooth rotation and reducing the need for complex vibration isolation or damping structures.
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 users to easily and intuitively adjust program parameters through tactile and auditory cues, enhancing usability and reducing production complexity and costs.
Implementation Method 1
a spring providing the connection of the first element and the second element
Implementation Method 2
at least one L shaped claw that extends towards the gear, that limits the movement of the gear by meshing with the teeth and that creates vibrations on the knob
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3~4
AI summary
The present invention relates to a household appliance (1) comprising a body (2), an opening (3) arranged on the body (2), a housing (4) placed into the opening (3) and extending towards the inner part of the body (2) from the opening (3), and a cylindrical knob (5) that is placed into the housing (4) and moved by being rotated and pushed.