MRE Haptic Module for Thin, Low-Energy Variable Feedback
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing haptic devices struggle to provide versatile haptic sensations with adjustable driving force while maintaining a thin configuration and requiring less energy.
Innovation Solution
A haptic device and module that incorporate a magnetorheological elastomer (MRE) vibration unit coupled with an elastic support unit, allowing for various haptic patterns and adjustable driving force through a magnetic field, while being thin and energy-efficient.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional haptic actuators (LRA, piezoelectric, inertial) are used, then haptic effects can be achieved, but the device complexity and energy consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses magnetorheological elastomer (MRE), a composite material consisting of magnetic particles dispersed in an elastomeric matrix. This composite structure enables the material to exhibit both elastic properties and magnetic responsiveness, allowing the vibration unit to generate haptic effects through magnetic field interaction without requiring complex mechanical structures like traditional LRA or piezoelectric actuators
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces complex mechanical actuation systems (eccentric motors, piezoelectric elements, electromagnetic coils) with a magnetorheological elastomer-based system. The MRE vibration unit responds directly to magnetic fields through the magneto-rheological effect, substituting elaborate mechanical mechanisms with a simpler field-responsive material system
2Reliability
If conventional haptic actuators are used, then haptic effects can be achieved, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes the ability of magnetorheological elastomer to change its mechanical properties (stiffness, damping) in response to magnetic field parameters. By adjusting the magnetic field strength and frequency, the system can modulate haptic output efficiently without requiring continuous high-energy input, as the MRE material inherently stores and releases mechanical energy through its elastomeric nature
3Reliability
If conventional haptic actuators are used, then haptic effects can be achieved, but the device height increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a thin-film vibration unit composed of magnetorheological elastomer that can be integrated into compact device structures. The MRE layer serves as both the actuating element and the vibrating surface, eliminating the need for bulky mechanical components and enabling thin-profile haptic devices
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
The solution enables the creation of various haptic sensations with adjustable intensity, achieves a thin configuration by reducing height, and operates with less energy, overcoming limitations of conventional haptic devices.
Implementation Method 1
the shape of a magnetorheological elastomer changes in response to an attractive or repulsive force, as the N and S poles of a magnetic field produced in the solenoid coil alternate with each other according to the frequency of a voltage or current applied to the coil
Implementation Method 2
an elastic support unit having elastic properties
Data Source
AI summary
A haptic device includes: a housing; a magnetic field generation unit disposed in the housing; an elastic support unit connected to the housing; a vibration unit which is connected to the elastic support unit, and which includes an elastic material in which magnetic particles are dispersed in a matrix; and a control unit for transmitting a signal to the magnetic field generation unit.