Matrix Thermoelectric Tactile Device for Multi-Temperature Sensation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing hot-cold tactile presentation devices can only transmit one type of temperature information at a time, limiting the range of sensations that can be conveyed to a user.
Innovation Solution
A matrix arrangement of thermoelectric elements with separate control over row and column lines allows for simultaneous transmission of multiple temperature information by controlling the temperature of each element independently.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a single thermoelectric element or simple heating/cooling element is used, then the device structure is simple, but only one type of temperature information can be transmitted at a time
Solution Approach 1:
The device divides the thermoelectric elements into multiple independently controllable groups arranged in a matrix pattern. Each group can be controlled separately through row and column line combinations, allowing simultaneous transmission of multiple temperature information types. This segmentation enables versatile temperature control while maintaining manageable structural complexity through systematic wiring.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from one-dimensional linear arrangement of thermoelectric elements to a two-dimensional matrix arrangement. This dimensional change allows multiple elements to be controlled simultaneously through the intersection of row and column lines, enabling parallel transmission of multiple temperature information types without proportionally increasing wiring complexity.
2Loss of information
If multiple thermoelectric elements are arranged in a matrix with separate control, then multiple temperature information can be transmitted simultaneously, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines row control lines and column control lines to achieve control over multiple thermoelectric elements. By merging the control functions into two sets of lines (rows and columns) rather than requiring individual control lines for each element, the system reduces overall control complexity while maintaining the capability to transmit multiple temperature information types simultaneously.
Solution Approach 2:
Each row line and column line serves multiple functions: row lines control multiple elements across different columns, while column lines control multiple elements across different rows. This multi-functionality allows the control system to manage numerous thermoelectric elements with fewer control lines, reducing device complexity while preserving full temperature information transmission capability.
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 the simultaneous transmission of multiple temperature sensations to a user, enhancing the awareness and immersion of tactile experiences in user terminals and other devices.
Implementation Method 1
A hot-cold tactile presentation device that is configured by a thermoelectric element such as a Peltier element is known
Data Source
AI summary
A hot-cold tactile presentation device includes a plurality of thermoelectric elements which are arranged in a matrix by placing the thermoelectric elements side by side along x and y directions respectively, a plurality of row_heat lines each extending in the x direction, and a plurality of column lines each extending in the y direction. The plurality of row_heat lines are each connected to one end of each of the plurality of thermoelectric elements that align in the x direction, and the plurality of column lines are each connected to the other end of each of the plurality of thermoelectric elements that align in the y direction.