Multimode Haptic Patch Segmentation for Static and Dynamic Sensing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing VR and AR user interfaces face challenges in accurately providing haptic feedback for both static and dynamic tactile sensing while maintaining a low implementation cost, as typical mechanical actuators and electrostimulation devices are not optimized for both modes, leading to reduced accuracy and increased costs when optimized for both.
Innovation Solution
A multimodal haptic feedback interface featuring a combination of mechanical actuators and electrostimulation electrodes, controlled by computing processors, which allows for optimization of each component for its respective sensing mode without the need for dual optimization, along with thermoelectric pellets for thermal feedback, integrated into a flexible multimode haptic patch.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If mechanical actuators are optimized for both static tactile sensing and dynamic tactile sensing, then haptic feedback accuracy is improved, but implementation cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The haptic feedback system is segmented into two independent subsystems: mechanical actuators for static tactile sensing and electrostimulation electrodes for dynamic tactile sensing. Each subsystem is optimized independently for its specific sensing mode, avoiding the need to optimize a single system for both modes which would increase complexity and cost.
Solution Approach 2:
The system achieves multi-functionality by combining two different actuation mechanisms (mechanical and electrostimulation) that can be selectively activated based on the required sensing mode. This allows the interface to provide both static and dynamic haptic feedback capabilities through a unified system architecture.
2Device complexity
If mechanical actuators are not optimized for both static and dynamic tactile sensing, then implementation cost is reduced, but haptic feedback accuracy is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the haptic feedback function into separate mechanical and electrostimulation pathways, allowing each to be independently optimized for its specific sensing mode without requiring compromise designs that would reduce accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the actuation parameter based on the sensing mode required: mechanical force for static sensing and electrical stimulation for dynamic sensing. This parameter switching allows optimal performance in each mode without requiring a single complex system 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
The solution enables accurate generation of haptic feedback for both static and dynamic tactile sensing, along with thermal feedback, while keeping implementation costs low by optimizing each component for its specific mode of operation, thereby enhancing user experience in VR and AR applications.
Implementation Method 1
The plurality of mechanical actuators is used for generating a two-dimensional pattern of pressure on the skin area
Implementation Method 2
The plurality of electrostimulation electrodes is used for electrically stimulating the skin area to cause the user to generate a feeling of vibration or pressure
Implementation Method 3
An optional thermal feeling for accompanying with the tactile feeling may be introduced by controllably providing heating or cooling at the user interface by using Peltier elements (heat pumps)
Data Source
AI summary
A multimodal haptic feedback interface installed with a multimode haptic patch stimulates a skin area of a user to provide a haptic feedback including first and second haptic-feedback components to be sensed under static tactile sensing and dynamic tactile sensing, respectively. The patch is mounted with mechanical actuators, electrostimulation electrodes and thermoelectric pellets. The actuators generate a two-dimensional pattern of pressure on the skin area for generating the first haptic-feedback component. The electrostimulation electrodes electrically stimulates the skin area, causing the user to feel a vibration or pressure for generating the second haptic-feedback component. The actuators and electrostimulation electrodes are optimized only for static tactile sensing and dynamic tactile sensing, respectively, reducing an implementation cost while optimized for accuracy in haptic feedback generation. The thermoelectric pellets, realized as Peltier-effect heat pumps, generate a two-dimensional pattern of temperature change on the skin area for providing a thermal feedback to the user.