Magneto Rheological Fluid Control for Multi-Member Operation Units
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing control apparatuses for electronic devices with multiple operation members require multiple operational feeling control units, leading to increased size and cost due to the need for separate MR fluid configurations for each member.
Innovation Solution
A compact control apparatus using a single magneto rheological fluid system with a magnetic field generator, where the MR fluid is strategically placed between moving members and a main body unit, allowing for adjustable viscosity and resistance to control the operational feel of multiple operation members, including both linear and rotational components, using a shared coil configuration.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple operational feeling control apparatuses are provided for multiple operation members, then the operational feeling of each operation member can be controlled independently, but the device size and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple operational feeling control apparatuses into a single integrated control unit. The main body unit houses a shared MR fluid chamber that can control multiple moving members simultaneously. This combining approach reduces the total number of separate control units needed, thereby reducing device size and cost while maintaining the capability to control operational feelings of multiple operation members.
Solution Approach 2:
The control apparatus is designed with universal functionality where a single apparatus can control multiple different types of operation members (rotational and linear). The main body unit contains an MR fluid system that can be configured to control various moving members through different connection mechanisms, making the control unit multi-functional rather than requiring dedicated units for each operation member type.
2Device complexity
If a single control apparatus controls multiple operation members, then device size and cost are reduced, but the ability to provide customized operational feelings for each member becomes limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by allowing different moving members to have different operational feeling characteristics controlled by the same MR fluid system. Each moving member can be independently connected to the MR fluid chamber, and the MR fluid's viscosity can be locally adjusted for each connection point through independent control mechanisms, enabling customized operational feelings for each operation member while using a single shared control apparatus.
Solution Approach 2:
The control apparatus is segmented into multiple independent control pathways within the single main body unit. Each moving member has its own connection mechanism to the MR fluid chamber, allowing independent control of operational feelings for each member. This segmentation within unity enables customized control for each operation member while maintaining the benefits of a compact single-unit design.
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 a low-cost, small-sized control apparatus that can adjust the operational feel of multiple operation members based on preference, providing a consistent and customizable user experience while reducing the overall size and cost of the electronic device.
Implementation Method 1
The MR fluid has a characteristic that when a magnetic field is applied to the MR fluid, the powders bond with each other and increase viscosity of the MR fluid. The MR fluid has a further characteristic that the viscosity increases as the magnetic field becomes stronger, and therefore the viscosity can be controlled by controlling the strength of the magnetic field.
Data Source
AI summary
A control apparatus includes a main body unit, a plurality of moving members each of which is movably supported by the main body unit, a magneto rheological fluid provided between the main body unit and each of the plurality of moving members or between each of the plurality of moving members, and one magnetic field generator configured to apply a magnetic field to the magneto rheological fluid.