Layered Fluidic Device Construction for AR Haptics
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing augmented and virtual reality systems require more effective and less bulky fluidic devices for haptic feedback, which current technologies struggle to achieve through simple and efficient construction methods.
Innovation Solution
A layered construction strategy for forming fluidic devices using distinct materials for each component, such as flexible plastics for gates, collapsible materials for channels, and rigid plastics for force concentrators, allowing for optimized functionality and assembly of components like channels, gates, and force concentrators.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If a single-material construction method is used for fluidic devices, then the manufacturing process is simpler, but the functionality and performance of different components (gate, channel, force concentrator) cannot be optimized independently
Solution Approach 1:
The fluidic device is divided into multiple separable components including a gate component, a channel component, and a force concentrator component. Each component can be formed from different materials optimized for its specific function, then assembled together. This segmentation allows independent optimization of each component's material properties while maintaining manufacturing efficiency through modular construction.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs composite material construction by combining different materials for different components within the same fluidic device. The gate may use a first material, the channel a second material, and the force concentrator a third material, creating a multi-material composite device that optimizes the properties of each component for its specific functional requirements.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple different materials are used for different components, then the functionality of each component is optimized, but the assembly process becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the device into distinct components (gate, channel, force concentrator) that can be formed separately and then assembled, the patent reduces assembly complexity compared to forming a monolithic multi-material device. Each component can be manufactured independently using processes optimized for its material, then joined together through standardized interfaces.
Solution Approach 2:
The individual components are formed in advance using material-specific processes before assembly. This preliminary action allows each component to be optimized for its material properties and function, and the pre-formed components can then be assembled together more efficiently rather than attempting to form the complete multi-material device in a single complex process.
3Adaptability or versatility
If components are formed separately and then assembled, then material selection for each component is optimized, but the overall manufacturing time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The fluidic device is segmented into multiple components that can be formed simultaneously or in parallel using different material optimization processes. This segmentation enables independent material selection for each component while the modular nature allows for efficient assembly, reducing the overall time penalty compared to sequential monolithic manufacturing.
Solution Approach 2:
Components are formed in advance using optimized material-specific processes, allowing for parallel manufacturing of different components. This preliminary formation of optimized components enables subsequent rapid assembly, and the pre-formed components can be prepared ahead of time, reducing the critical path of the overall manufacturing process.
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods for forming a fluidic device using a layered construction strategy may include (1) forming a first component for the fluidic device out of a first material, (2) forming a second component for the fluidic device out of a second material that is different than the first material, and (3) after forming the first and second components, forming the fluidic device by assembling a variety of components including the first component and the second component.