Localized Haptic Structure with Piezoelectric Beam Actuation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional haptic actuators in electronic devices typically vibrate the entire device and cannot provide localized haptic output at specific areas, limiting the ability to simulate key actuation or provide texture feedback.
Innovation Solution
A haptic structure incorporating beam structures coupled to piezoelectric elements that deflect in response to input signals, allowing for localized and global haptic outputs by deflecting the surface of the electronic device.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If conventional vibratory motors are used to provide haptic output, then haptic feedback can be generated, but the entire electronic device vibrates and localized haptic output cannot be achieved
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the haptic actuation function into multiple independent beam structures, each capable of being individually actuated by separate piezoelectric elements. This segmentation allows localized haptic output at specific regions of the input surface while maintaining overall device simplicity through modular architecture.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements local quality by enabling different regions of the input surface to have independent haptic actuation capabilities through multiple beam structures. Each beam structure can be selectively activated to provide localized feedback, while other regions remain unaffected, achieving spatially differentiated haptic output.
2Manufacturing precision
If beam structures with piezoelectric elements are used to achieve localized haptic output, then precise haptic feedback can be provided at specific locations, but the device structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the beam structure directly with the substrate by forming beams as suspended portions of the substrate itself. This integration eliminates the need for separate beam components, reducing structural complexity while maintaining the capability for precise localized haptic feedback through selective actuation of substrate regions.
Solution Approach 2:
The substrate serves multiple functions: it acts as both the structural support and the haptic actuation element. The suspended portions of the substrate function as both mechanical supports and haptic feedback providers, eliminating the need for dedicated haptic components and simplifying the overall device structure.
3Volume of moving object
If conventional actuators are replaced with beam structures and piezoelectric elements, then device size and thickness can be reduced, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical actuator systems with piezoelectric elements that convert electrical signals directly to mechanical displacement. This substitution eliminates complex mechanical linkages and reduces device thickness, while the piezoelectric effect provides sufficient precision for haptic feedback without requiring high-precision mechanical assemblies.
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 precise haptic feedback at specific locations, simulating key actuation and texture sensations, while potentially reducing device size and thickness by replacing conventional actuators.
Implementation Method 1
a piezoelectric element coupled to a second side of the beam structure; wherein the piezoelectric element is configured to deflect the beam structure in a first direction to provide a first haptic output in response to a first input signal applied to the piezoelectric element
Data Source
Figure 1A
Figure 1B
Figure 2A~2C
AI summary
Disclosed herein are structures, devices, methods and systems for providing haptic output on an electronic device. In some embodiments, the electronic device includes an actuator configured to move in a first direction. The electronic device also includes a substrate coupled to the actuator. When the actuator moves in the first direction, the substrate or a portion of the substrate, by virtue of being coupled to the actuator, moves in a second direction. In some implementations, the movement of the substrate is perpendicular to the movement of the actuator.