Localized Haptic Feedback via Segmented Actuators
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional haptic feedback systems in wearables and consumer electronics provide a global vibration signal, lacking localization, which limits user perception and ability to discern specific notification sources or textures.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating multiple Line Resonant Actuators (LRAs) within a wearable device case, surrounded by a soft elastomer to provide independent and localized haptic feedback, ensuring each actuator is mechanically decoupled and separated to exceed the two-point discrimination threshold, allowing for distinct perception of vibrations at different locations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a single bulky motor is used to vibrate the entire device, then haptic feedback can be provided, but the feedback is not localized and user perception is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the single haptic feedback system into multiple independent actuators (at least two actuators) positioned at different locations within the device housing. Each actuator can be independently controlled to provide localized haptic feedback at specific regions, enabling the user to distinguish between different notification sources through spatial localization of vibrations.
2Loss of information
If multiple actuators are used to provide localized haptic feedback, then user perception is enhanced, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements local quality by positioning each actuator to contact the housing at a distinct location, creating localized haptic zones. Each actuator provides haptic feedback tailored to its specific position, allowing users to differentiate notification sources based on the location of vibration rather than treating the entire device as a single feedback source.
3Area of stationary object
If actuators are placed close together, then device size is reduced, but the two-point discrimination threshold cannot be exceeded
Solution Approach 1:
The patent addresses the spatial constraint by utilizing the three-dimensional space within the device housing. Actuators are positioned at different locations and orientations, leveraging vertical and depth dimensions in addition to horizontal spacing. This multi-dimensional arrangement allows adequate separation for tactile discrimination while maintaining a compact overall device footprint.
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
Enhances human perception of haptic feedback by enabling localized, non-global signals that can differentiate between various notifications and textures, improving user experience through precise tactile feedback.
Implementation Method 1
a plurality of actuators within the wearable device case, each of which to vibrate independently or in combination
Implementation Method 2
an elastomer surrounding the sides of each of the plurality of actuators within the wearable device case to hold the actuators in position
Implementation Method 3
an elastomer surrounding the sides of each of the plurality of actuators
Data Source
AI summary
In accordance with disclosed embodiments, there are provided systems, methods, and apparatuses for implementing increased human perception of haptic feedback systems. For instance, there is disclosed in accordance with one embodiment there is wearable device, having therein: a wearable device case; a plurality of actuators within the wearable device case, each of which to vibrate independently or in combination; in which one surface of each of the plurality of actuators is exposed at a surface of the wearable device case; an elastomer surrounding the sides of each of the plurality of actuators within the wearable device case to hold the actuators in position within the wearable device case; and electrical interconnects from each of the plurality of actuators to internal semiconductor components of the wearable device. Other related embodiments are disclosed.