Localized Haptics for Two Fingers via Segmented Actuators
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current input devices, such as proximity sensor devices, face challenges in providing simultaneous and precise positional information for multiple input objects while delivering targeted haptic feedback, as they often struggle to isolate feedback effectively between different contact points.
Innovation Solution
The input device incorporates a processing system with sensor electrodes and actuators that determine positional information for multiple input objects and move the input surface to provide haptic feedback to one object while isolating feedback to another, using a combination of sensor modules and actuators to manage forces and positions accurately.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a single actuator moves the input surface to provide haptic feedback, then haptic feedback is provided to one input object, but haptic feedback cannot be isolated to different input objects simultaneously
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the input surface into multiple independently controllable regions, each associated with a separate actuator. This segmentation allows different portions of the input surface to provide haptic feedback to different input objects simultaneously, resolving the contradiction between providing haptic feedback and isolating feedback to specific objects.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamic control of the input surface by allowing actuators to independently adjust the position and characteristics of different input surface regions in real-time. This dynamic capability enables the system to adaptively provide isolated haptic feedback to multiple input objects simultaneously based on their respective positions and interaction requirements.
2Measurement precision
If sensor electrodes determine positional information for multiple input objects, then positional information is obtained for all objects, but precise feedback isolation to specific objects becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by enabling different regions of the input surface to have different haptic characteristics and feedback properties. Each region can be independently controlled to provide appropriate feedback to the input object contacting that specific region, achieving precise feedback isolation without requiring complex global control mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent makes the input surface and its actuators multi-functional, allowing them to simultaneously perform sensing, positioning, and haptic feedback provision for multiple input objects. This universality reduces device complexity by eliminating the need for separate dedicated feedback mechanisms for each object.
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
This solution enables the input device to effectively determine positional information for multiple objects and provide tailored haptic feedback, enhancing user interaction by ensuring precise control and feedback isolation.
Implementation Method 1
a sensor module comprising circuitry coupled to a plurality of sensor electrodes, the sensor module configured to transmit transmitter signals and to receive resulting signals with at least a portion of the plurality of sensor electrodes
Implementation Method 2
an actuator to move the input surface to provide haptic feedback to the first input object contacting the input surface and to isolate haptic feedback to the second input object contacting the input surface
Data Source
AI summary
An input device includes an input surface to contact a plurality of input objects. The plurality of input objects includes a first input object and a second input object. Further, the input device includes a plurality of sensor electrodes to determine positional information for the plurality of input objects on the input surface. The input device includes an actuator to move the input surface to provide haptic feedback to the first input object contacting the input surface and to isolate haptic feedback to the second input object contacting the input surface.