Lock-Released Operating Unit for Tactile Feedback Timing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing operating devices fail to provide optimal operation feeling to users and risk damage or noise due to unexpected movement of the operating unit, as the support stiffness level cannot be switched between operating and non-operating states.
Innovation Solution
An operating device with an operation detector, a lock mechanism unit, and a response force providing mechanism, where the lock mechanism is released upon operator input detection, allowing the response force mechanism to operate and provide a tactile feedback to the user.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the operating unit is made movable to provide operation feeling, then the operation feeling is improved, but the risk of damage and noise due to unexpected movement increases
Solution Approach 1:
The operating unit dynamically switches between locked and movable states based on operation detection. When no operation is detected, the lock mechanism unit restricts movement to prevent damage and noise. When operation is detected, the locking is released to allow movement and provide operation feeling. This dynamic state change resolves the contradiction between providing operation feeling and preventing damage.
Solution Approach 2:
The lock mechanism unit applies preliminary restriction to the operating unit's movement before any operation occurs. This preliminary anti-action prevents unexpected movement that could cause damage or noise. When operation is detected, the locking is released to allow the desired movement for providing operation feeling.
2Ease of operation
If the support stiffness is switched to increase vibration amplitude, then the operation feeling is improved, but the support stiffness cannot be switched at optimal timing
Solution Approach 1:
The lock mechanism unit is released in advance when operation detection is triggered, preparing the operating unit for movement before the actual operation occurs. This preliminary action ensures that the operating unit can move and provide operation feeling at the optimal timing, resolving the timing issue.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses operation detection as feedback to control the lock mechanism unit. When operation is detected, the locking is released to allow movement. This feedback-based control ensures that the operating unit provides operation feeling at the correct timing, improving the overall operation experience.
3Reliability
If the lock mechanism is always engaged to prevent movement, then damage and noise are prevented, but operation feeling cannot be provided
Solution Approach 1:
The lock mechanism unit dynamically changes its state based on operation detection. It remains engaged to prevent movement and protect against damage, but releases when operation is detected to allow movement and provide operation feeling. This dynamic behavior resolves the contradiction between protection and operation feedback.
Solution Approach 2:
The system automatically controls the lock mechanism unit based on operation detection without requiring manual intervention. When operation is detected, the locking is automatically released to provide operation feeling, and when no operation is detected, it remains engaged for protection. This self-service approach resolves the contradiction efficiently.
Data Source
AI summary
An operating device includes a lock mechanism unit that regulates relative movement of an operating unit with respect to a supporting member, and a controller that releases locking of the lock mechanism unit when input of an operator is detected by an operation detector. When contact of a finger with a surface panel is detected by a first detection member, locking of the operating unit by the lock mechanism unit is released. In addition, when a pressing operation to the operating unit is detected by a second detection member, control is performed so that a response force providing mechanism operates.