Mouse Button Haptic Feedback Using Force Sensors and EM Actuators
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional computer mouse buttons lack customization options, limiting the user experience and effectiveness in handling complex applications.
Innovation Solution
Integration of force sensors and high-definition haptic actuators in mouse buttons to allow precise customization of tactile feedback through adjustable force curves and audio feedback, enabling users to define profiles for different applications.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-generated harmful factors
If vibration motors are used to provide haptic feedback, then haptic feedback can be provided, but the motors can be heard and detract from the audio experience
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional vibration motors with electromagnetic actuators that use electromagnetic fields to generate haptic feedback. This substitution eliminates the mechanical vibration sources that produce audible noise, thereby resolving the contradiction between providing haptic feedback and avoiding noise that detracts from audio experience.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the operating parameters by using electromagnetic actuation instead of mechanical rotation. The electromagnetic actuators operate at frequencies and amplitudes that are imperceptible to the human ear while still providing effective haptic feedback, thus resolving the noise issue while maintaining functionality.
2Adaptability or versatility
If force sensors and haptic actuators are integrated into the controller, then bidirectional force feedback can be provided, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the force sensing and haptic actuation functions into an integrated assembly where force sensors and haptic actuators are combined in a compact configuration. This merging approach enables bidirectional force feedback while minimizing the increase in device complexity through shared structural elements and integrated control electronics.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated assembly serves multiple functions: force sensing in one direction, force actuation, and force sensing in the opposite direction. This multi-functionality approach allows the system to provide comprehensive bidirectional force feedback while using a unified structural platform, thereby managing complexity effectively.
3Ease of operation
If traditional vibration motors are used, then haptic feedback can be generated, but the motors occupy significant space within the controller
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces bulky mechanical vibration motors with compact electromagnetic actuators. These actuators generate haptic feedback through electromagnetic field interactions rather than mechanical rotation, significantly reducing the volume required for haptic feedback generation while maintaining the same functional capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the physical parameters of the haptic actuation system by using electromagnetic fields instead of mechanical motion. This parameter change enables the same haptic feedback functionality to be achieved in a much smaller volume, resolving the contradiction between haptic feedback generation and controller size.
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 user experience and gaming performance by providing tailored tactile feedback that reduces accidental clicks and improves interaction efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
the controller includes a force sensor configured to detect a magnitude and a direction of a force applied to the controller
Implementation Method 2
a haptic actuator configured to generate the tactile feedback in response to the determined characteristic of the input signal
Data Source
Figure 1A~1B
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
A method, a computer-readable medium, and an apparatus for customizing an input device are provided. The method may include setting a set of parameters associated with actuating a button of the input device. The set of parameters may include at least one of a threshold force for actuating the button or a threshold displacement for actuating the button. The method may receive a press of the button. The method may provide a tactile feedback based on the set of parameters in response to the press of the button.